Kent Police are reminding cyclists to take extra care when leaving their bike unattended in Maidstone.
The warning comes after two reported thefts in the town centre on Monday 3 August 2020.
At 9am, a mountain bike was left locked in the High Street and, when the owner returned a short time later, it had been stolen along with the lock.
A second cycle theft was reported after it was targeted in Week Street between 12.30pm and 1.20pm while the owner went into a shop.
Inspector Mark Hedges of Maidstone’s Community Safety Unit said: ‘Cycles can be easy targets for thieves but you can take some simple steps to protect your property.
`Get a good lock and attach your bike and any removable parts such as the wheels to something secure, even if only you are only leaving it for a few minutes.
‘Don’t forget to take any light fittings or expensive accessories with you.
‘Cyclists should avoid leaving their bike in an isolated place and use locations where a potential thief can be seen by witnesses or on CCTV.’
Further crime prevention advice is available on the Kent Police website using the following link https://www.kent.police.uk/…/crime-prev…/theft-of-a-bicycle/
Anybody with information that may assist the investigation is asked to call us on 01622 604100, quoting crime reference 46/134833/20.
You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111
