Bundaberg Police are reminding locals to ensure their e-scooters are secure after a recent spate of thefts.
Over the past few months, police have received numerous reports of personal e-scooters stolen in Bundaberg and surrounding areas.
“The smaller size and weight of scooters can make them targets for offenders as they are easier to physically pick up and carry or ride away,” a Bundaberg Police spokesperson said.
“Thieves often carry cutting implements to remove locking devices, so it is important you are proactive about your property security.
“For example, recent reports from victims involving e-scooters is that they were secured by bike padlocks which were simply cut by thieves and stolen.”
Tips to help prevent e-scooters theft
- Try to keep your scooter in sight at all times. When arriving at your destination, consider taking your scooter inside with you where possible.
- When commuting on your scooter, be aware of thieves using cutting implements to gain access to locked or secured items.
- If you live in multi-residential housing, consider storing your scooter inside your unit or apartment rather than in the carpark.
There are a few things you can do to increase the chances of your scooter being returned to you if they are lost or stolen:
- Take note of your scooter serial number if it has one and record it somewhere safe.
- If it does have a serial number, you can attend your local police station and have it recorded on the police database.
- If it doesn’t have a serial number, consider having your scooter engraved so that it can be identified as belonging to you.
- Take photos of your scooter so that you have a clear record of any distinguishing marks or fit outs it may have.
- Consider concealing a small GPS or air tracker on your e-scooters so that it may be located if stolen or lost.
- Don’t wait until your scooter is stolen to implement crime prevention strategies.
- Thieves can’t steal what they can’t access so be proactive in protecting your property and always secure your scooter even if you only plan to leave it for a short period of time.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day by clicking here.
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