Police crackdown on Worthing bike thefts leads to arrests and recoveries

A number of people in Worthing have finally got their stolen bikes back after a big police crackdown.

Plain-clothed officers targeted hotspots for the crime and made several arrests over two days in August.

Over the Summer - 91 thefts, or attempted thefts, were reported in areas including Splashpoint, Montague Street, Marine Parade and Worthing train station.

The total value of the bikes stolen during that period is estimated to be £28,000.

PC Rob Luff, of Worthing Neighbourhood Policiing Team, said: “Police and PCSOs carry out regular patrols of the town throughout the year in order to prevent and detect offences. However, from the intelligence we have gathered, it is clear that thieves continue to operate in these areas, where cyclists should be able to feel their bikes are secure.

“These opportunist criminals also use brazen tactics such as bolt croppers and in some cases angle grinders in order to break locks, often stealing bikes in a matter of seconds.

“Our key message to cyclists is to register your bike, which increases our chances of being able to return it to you in the event it is stolen and recovered.”

During the operation, officers spotted a teenager on a bike carrying out a hand-to-hand exchange.

Following a police chase, he was searched and found to be in possession of around 75 wraps of heroin, 63 wraps of crack cocaine, cash and two mobile phones.

A 16-year-old suspect from Worthing has been released on conditional bail after being questioned on suspicion of drug possession with intent to supply, money laundering and having an offensive weapon.