Police target cycle thieves

POLICE at Warrington are targeting cycle thieves following an outbreak of thefts in the town.
Between January 1 and March 5, reports were received of 120 shed burglaries and 70 cycle thefts.
As a result, officers are targeting suspicious people using bikes in high risk areas.
Inspector Richard Spedding said: “This operation is in response to ongoing crime patterns that have become apparent in the area.
“Dedicated resources have been allocated to tackle this issue. We want to make it clear to criminals that if they commit a crime in Warrington, they will be caught. As a result of this operation we have already made three arrests in two separate incidents and recovered stolen bicycles that have been returned to their owners.”
Police are reminding people they store bicycles securely, locked and in a garage or shed and to fit shed locks and exterior lighting to deter thieves.
Cycles should also be security marked with an ultraviolet pen or other form of property marking.
Inspector Spedding added: “By working in partnership with local communities we can make Warrington a hostile place for criminals. As well as taking heed of the crime prevention advice I would urge people to remain vigilant and report to the police anyone or thing that they feel is suspicious”
Anyone with any information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101. Information can also be passed on anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.