Victoria police are reminding motorcycle and scooter owners of some key steps they can take to prevent theft after a “marked increase” in stolen vehicles the last few weeks.
Police have observed a 36 per cent increase over last year in vehicle thefts during the four-week period between July 14 and Aug. 13.
Summer often sees an increase in property crime compared to winder months, but police say this year’s increase exceeds the usual pattern. “Motorcycles and scooters make up a significant proportion of these thefts and are being stolen at a rate of nearly one every two days, which is unusual,” a VicPD release states.
To ensure that a motorcycle, scooter, or electric bike are properly protected, the police recommend the following:
- Park your vehicle in a well-lit location.
- Use an additional locking device such as a heavy wheel lock or chain.
- Report any suspicious activity to police, and to your Block Watch Captain if you’re a member of VicPD Block Watch.
If you have information about a motorcycle, scooter, or electric bike theft, call VicPD’s non-emergency line at 250-995-7654. To report what you know anonymously, please call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
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