Stolen Bike Recovered Following Neighbourhood Policing Operation

What started as the theft of a high-value pedal cycle from Eureka Business Park, Ashford, ended with a successful recovery and two arrests thanks to some proactive work by your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.
 

After reporting the theft, the victim later spotted what they believed to be their stolen bike advertised for sale on eBay for a discounted price  you couldn't say no to. A viewing was arranged by the victim, and officers, working with the victim, stepped in to attend on their behalf, attended as prospective buyers and taking the opportunity to inspect the bike first-hand.
 

When officers met the sellers, a quick test ride identified the stolen bike details and the suspects. The operation resulted in the arrest of an adult male and a juvenile male on suspicion of handling stolen goods and theft of a pedal cycle. Officers also discovered cannabis during the encounter, leading to a further arrest for possession of a controlled drug.
 

The stolen bike has now been recovered and returned to its rightful owner, and enquiries remain ongoing.
 

If you are purchasing high-value items, take time to check their history, ask questions about ownership, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Purchasing stolen goods can come with risks and can harm legitimate businesses, as well as ending up leaving someone with a criminal record and help fund organised crime and criminal activity.
 

This is another great example of how information provided by victims and members of the public can help us identify offenders, recover stolen property and keep our communities safe.
 

📞 To report information to Kent Police, call 101 or make a report online via the https://www.kent.police.uk.

🚨 If a crime is happening now or someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.

🔒 If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or submit information online via the https://crimestoppers-uk.org.