No suspects identified for more than half of bike thefts in Southampton - See map

Data from data.police.uk revealed there were a total of 59 bike thefts in the city in April this year alone.

Of those thefts, 23 remain under investigation while 36 have been investigated, but no suspect identified.

'You want somebody to give a damn'

Avid cycler William Roberts had his £650 bike stolen from Southampton Central Station in February this year.

In light of this, he says the fact no suspects have been identified for 36 of the thefts is not good enough.

The 49-year-old said: “When my bike was stolen earlier this year, my case was just ignored and that is what I get angry about.

William Roberts

“You want somebody to give a damn.

“If somebody stole a Rolls-Royce I think they would do something about it, but what’s the difference?

“It’s hard enough cycling through Southampton, let alone having your bike stolen as well.

“But I don’t think there’s an awful lot that can be done to stop the thefts.

“Even if you put cameras everywhere, does it make that much of a difference?”

'Greatest risk and harm prioritised'

In response Hampshire Constabulary have said they will continue to maintain a focus on apprehending those responsible for committing these crimes.

Southampton Superintendent, Simon Dodds, said: “We are aware that there was an increase in the number of bicycles reported as stolen across Southampton in April earlier this year and of the impact felt for the victims of these crimes.

“Our local policing teams prioritise those investigations where the greatest risk and harm is identified so that we work towards keeping the city safe.

Police stock image (Image: Getty)

“However we will always seek to investigate reports of thefts where there are reasonable lines of enquiry.

“While we aren’t able to investigate every bike theft, the daily reviewing of offences and identification of crime trends and patterns allows us to target those locations we know are most prevalent for these crimes and the offenders who are causing the most harm.”

According to the force, all reported incidents are reviewed by the neighbourhood teams and investigative opportunities including forensics, witness and CCTV evidence are considered.

Advice issued

Cyclists are encouraged to protect their bike by using two locks (with one being a D-lock) to make your bike less of a target, while securing your bike as close to the stand as possible to give any thieves little or no room to manoeuvre.

It is also advised that you take parts that are easy to remove with you, such as wheels, lights, baskets or the saddle.

Or use locking skewers or nuts which can increase security by securing the bike's components to the frame permanently.

Superintendent Simon Dodds added: “As a member of the public, if you witness anything suspicious or if you have been a victim of crime, then please continue to report this to police by calling 101 or by submitting a report online via the Hampshire Constabulary website.

“This will then be reviewed by the local Neighbourhood Policing Team. If it is an emergency, or a crime is in progress, dial 999 immediately.”

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