Dear Resident of Shanklin,

A quick message to draw your attention to several reports of theft of motorcycles we have received over the past week or so. In each case, the motorcycle has been recovered, but found to have damage to the ignition barrel and fairings (removed to gain access to wiring looms) along with number plates missing. Each motorcycle has been recovered very shortly after being reported stolen. Where possible we have arranged for the motorcycles to be examined forensically in an effort to obtain samples for analysis.

If you see anyone acting suspiciously around a parked motorcycle, please report it to Police. Likewise, if you happen across a motorcycle you believe to have been abandoned, please let us know. Reports can be made very quickly via the online service at:

 How to report a lost or stolen vehicle | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and clicking on the ‘start’ tab at the bottom of the page.

If you own a motorcycle and it needs to be parked outside, please do ensure that you take the necessary steps to secure it with suitable locks and locking points. Ensure you have the VIN number to hand should the worst happen as this can be useful in identifying motorcycles with false, or no, registration plates.

Please see the attached guide for some further information on ensuring your motorcycle is secured as best as can be.

If you know of a friend or family member who owns a motorcycle, please forward on this advice to them.

Many thanks for your time.

Regards

Matt

PCSO 15093 Matt Wheeler

Shanklin Neighbourhood Policing Team