In recent times, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) has observed an increase in the number of motorcycles reported stolen. Last week, 20 motorcycles were reported stolen from various locations around the island. That number of motor-vehicles stolen so far this year stood at 498, as of Wednesday, August 28.
Below is a breakdown of the number of motor-vehicles (MV) reported stolen since 2020.
1.492 MV Theft recorded in 2020
2.531 MV Theft recorded in 2021
3.620 MV Theft recorded in 2022
4.553 MV Theft recorded in 2023
5.498 MV Theft recorded in 2024 (to 28-Aug-2024)
Every report of vehicle theft is recorded by the BPS. Vehicle numbers are circulated to all patrol officers, broadcasted on police radios. CCTV and other lines of enquiry are actively used to attempt to identify the persons who have taken them.
The problem of recovering stolen vehicles, is not as simple as it sounds. Stolen vehicles in Bermuda which are in the main part cycles, are taken for a number of reasons. Bikes are often disassembled and sold for parts. Stolen bikes are often stripped down to the frame which is then dumped in bushes or in the ocean making recovery even more difficult.
These bikes are also used in various crimes and are usually fitted with licence plates belonging to another cycle. Other cycles are taken and used for joy riding by teenagers and then dumped.
In nearly every case of a car being stolen the BPS has recovered the vehicle. In cases where a car has been stolen, most times keys are left in the ignition or somewhere inside the vehicle.
In order to minimise the risk of vehicle theft, do not leave a vehicle unattended and with the engine running. Secure bikes with a proper lock, preferably attached to a stationary object that cannot be moved. At night, park bikes in well-lit areas and in all cases be sure not to leave keys in the ignition or spare keys with your bike or car.
The BPS thanks those persons who have already assisted with information that has resulted in the recovery of stolen vehicles. Those persons with relevant information, can contact 211 or alternatively you can share any information that you may have with a police officer you are familiar with, or through the BPS online community reporting portal, https://portal.police.bm/
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