According to the Halton Regional Police Service, there has been an increase in bike thefts in the Burlington area.
Residents are asked to follow some guidelines to help prevent these thefts from occurring, as well as keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
The tips are:
- Ensure your unattended bicycle is locked up to an immovable object;
- If possible, select a bike rack with at least two points of contact in order to lock both the frame and wheels;
- Consider removing a tire or seat to discourage would-be-thieves;
- U-locks provide a greater deterrence to theft when compared to cable locks. Consider using (2) locks;
- Lock the bicycle in a well-lit and attended areas whenever possible;
- Ensure you garage door is closed when bicycle is left inside;
- Document information of the bicycle (have serial number and photo of the bike) to provide to police if required;
- REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY TO POLICE IMMEDIATELY.
Locations that have been targeted by bike thieves:
- Burlington GO Stations
- Shopping Centers and Plazas
Halton Police have made a number of arrests. They say they will continue to target these crimes of opportunity.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Matt Spina of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2338.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
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