Cyclists on alert as thieves steal FIFTY bikes in crime blitz in Southampton

The 54 cycles were stolen from locations in the city centre and the area during a spate of thefts from hotspot areas.

Now police are urging cyclists to properly secure their bicycles to protect them from opportunist criminals as they step up patrols in the area.

And it comes as officers from the British Transport Police (BTP) also clampdown on the crime at stations in the area.

It comes as officers from Hampshire Constabulary launch a major campaign to crackdown on the crime – increasing patrols in the area - and ensuring people are using robust enough locks to secure them.

The cycles were stolen in the month between Wednesday last week and Monday, September 12, from areas including Above Bar, Western Esplanade, Commercial Road and Oxford Street.

Now police have launched Operation D-Lock where they will be hunting down the perpetrators and holding engagement events across the city in the coming weeks to promote bike security like D-Locks and Immobilise.com to deter thieves.

- Five bikes were stolen throughout Sunday, October 9, from High Street, Town Quay, Western Esplanade and Above Bar.

- The following day another five bikes were taken from City College, Oxford Street, Harbour Parade, Civic Centre Road and the High Street.

- On Tuesday, October 11, another five cycles were reported as stolen, again from Above Bar and Town Quay areas, as well as Commercial Road and West Park Road.

- On Wednesday October 12, four reports were received after bikes were stolen from West Quay, East Park Terrace plus Harbour Parade and Western Esplanade.

BTP is also stepping up patrols to deter cycle thieves outside of Southampton Central Station.

It is part of a widespread campaign covering eight stations in the county.

The drive is being launched in conjunction with Bike Register called Lock It Mark It to educate passengers about the importance of securely locking bikes when they are left at stations.

Police Sergeant Jeanette Maidment from Southampton Central Neighbourhood Team said: “Officers are arranging a number of community events in the city that will promote the use of D-Locks to deter thieves rather than cable locks, which are often easily cut through.

“We are also urging cyclists to register their bikes on Immobilise.com where you can register your property to help reduce theft and improve your chances at getting your bike back.

"It can be incredibly upsetting, not to mention frustrating, when someone has their bike stolen. For many people, a bike is their main mode of transport and used as part of everyday life.

“We want Southampton’s residents to feel they are able to ride their bike without the fear of being stolen.

“If you see anyone acting suspiciously around bike sheds or racks, please call us.”

BTP's Inspector Adam McEvoy said: “Over the past few years we have seen a steady increase in passengers using cycles to travel to and from railway stations. Unfortunately this has also provided increased opportunities for thieves, due to cycles being relatively easy to steal and dispose of. Our message to cyclists is simple – make sure you lock and mark your bike to reduce the chances of it being stolen.”

Anyone who has information on bike theft or has been offered a bike for sale in suspicious circumstances can call 101 – or 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and leave information anonymously.

Follow @SouthamptonCops on Twitter for updates, crime prevention advice and future events.

Also BTP on 0800 405040. Having your Bike Register number, a photo and any other details to hand may help us with our investigation.