Motorcycle thefts up in Plymouth

Police think it's linked to a social media craze

Investigations are underway following a spate of motorcycle and moped thefts in Plymouth.

Officers have received a number of reports in recent weeks, which they believe are linked to a social media craze.

The trend sees teenagers filming themselves stealing and dumping vehicles, wth the incidents predominently taking place during the night.

Inspector Tim Hinde said: "Those responsible are reported to be around 14-17 years old.

“Some vehicles have been recovered to their owners, and we have interviewed several teenagers in relation to these reports and continue to work with the Youth Justice teams to pursue these cases.”

"To those committing these offences, they are not victimless crimes. Consider the people impacted by your actions. Taking someone’s vehicle can have a significant impact on their livelihood, ability to get to work, to support themselves and their families to name but a few, all for the sake of some social media likes?!’

Members of the public are also being reminded not to take the law into their own hands and to leave the police to take action against thefts.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviours or a crime in progress is being urged to call 999.