Bike thieves foxed by decoy bicycles

By LiseS

Saturday, January 02, 2010, 12:09

With more people in the borough choosing to cycle to work and play, opportunities for bike thieves have been increasing over the past couple of years - 1348 bicycle thefts were reported in 2008-9. To address this problem, Islington Council have joined forces with Islington Police to place special decoy bikes, under police surveillance, in cycle theft hot-spots. So far, six unwitting thieves of the decoy bikes have been arrested under this initiative, and further operations are planned.

This bicycle is probably safe from thieves.

 

The council also have advice for cyclists to help prevent theft. "Some simple security steps, like good bike locks, can make all the difference," says Cllr Barbara Smith (community safety). "Bikes can be protected by using two good locks, locking both wheels and frame, and making sure the lock cannot be placed in contact with the ground."

Cllr Smith also recommends using secure stands rather than lamp posts or street signs, and not leaving bikes regularly in the same place. Last year, Islington Council brought the total of on-street cycle racks in the borough to 1230 to improve cycle security for residents. To request a cycle stand near your home or place of work in Islington,  email volkan.ulucay@islington.gov.uk.

Residents are also being offered discount vouchers for bike locks. For 10% off any security product at Mosquito Bikes in Essex Road or Finsbury Cycles, in Seven Sisters Road, visit www.islington.gov.uk/saferbikes or your local Safer Neighbourhood Team.

"Cycle theft is a problem that the police take very seriously," says Inspector John Frost, of Islington police.  In addition to using good locks and following the security tips outlined above, cyclists are also encouraged to register their biciycles at www.immobilise.com.

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