Police step up fight against bike thieves at train stations

Officers from British Transport Police (BTP) have confirmed that they are intensifying a crime crackdown after seeing an increase in the number of bike thefts from railway stations across the country.

The admission comes after two teenagers were arrested at York railway station on Tuesday. The 14-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, admitted trying to steal a bike and was given a formal caution. No further action was taken against the 15-year-old.

Inspector Jim Walsh said station staff are being briefed to remain alert for thieves, and officers are monitoring online sales sites and liaising with second-hand shops to trace any stolen bikes.

There were 5,904 bike thefts from stations nationally during 2011/12 – up from 4,322 offences in 2009/10. There were 361 offences in the North-East policing area, which includes Yorkshire, during the last financial year.

Insp Walsh said: “Regrettably, the theft of cycles is on the increase nationally and rail stations are often a target due to the number of bikes being left by passengers for long periods of time, but this is an emerging issue which is affecting everyone. BTP is cracking down on this type of crime and wants to send a strong message out to thieves that we have a dedicated team of officers specifically focused on tackling it.”

He urged bike owners to ensure cycles are security marked and safely locked up while left at stations.