A police crackdown on bike theft in Aberdeen has led to 13 individuals being charged and 17 bicycles recovered in the space of just two weeks.
Operation Lathe, which started at the beginning of June, was established to target bike thieves and encourage owners to do all they can to ensure their bikes are safe and secure.
The stolen items were found in various addresses across the city.
Sergeant David Cowie, who is leading the month-long operation, said: “The team has been aiming to reunite the rightful owners of the bikes with their property, and so far we’ve been able to return six bikes to their owners.
“As you can imagine, the owners have been very pleased to get their stolen property back.
“We still have 11 bikes to return to their owners. I would therefore ask the public to contact us if you have had your bike stolen recently as we could well have it.
“Proof of ownership will be required.
“We would dearly like to be able to reunite owners with their bikes, so please contact us if you think your bike is one of them.”
Sgt Cowie explained there were a number of easy steps bike owners could take to help recover their bikes if they are stolen.
He said: “Although we are successfully recovering bikes, we are still seeing a number reported stolen every week.
“I would again remind bike owners to lock and tether their bikes to fixed items whenever they leave their bikes unattended.
“Photographing your bike and recording all of your bike’s details and distinguishing features including the serial number can be extremely useful in the event that a bike is stolen.
“As has been proved, if you security mark your bike’s frame with a UV pen or other method, then if we do recover your bike, it means we can return the bike to you quickly.
“Officers will continue to carry out both covert and high visibility patrols to deter and disrupt the theft of bikes.”
Anyone who can assist the police in recovering stolen bikes or other property can phone 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.
