For the period January 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) received an alarming 208 motorcycle theft reports. 99 of those motorcycles have been recovered by the BPS.
Chief Inspector, Robert Cardwell stated, “The Tactical Division has carried out a detailed analysis of the reported thefts. That analysis has identified a number of potential suspects. We are now conducting further inquiries to ascertain the evidential leads of those suspects. A team is being assembled to follow up on those leads. It is the intent to hold all suspects accountable for their actions and place them before the courts so that justice can prevail.”
Mr. Cardwell also highlighted an issue which impacts suspects being brought before the courts for this offence. “Often hindering prosecution, is that once a motorcycle is recovered, the complainant does not want to proceed with a prosecution after they’ve received financial settlement from their insurance company for the stolen bike. Without a complainant, we are unable to proceed. We are now in discussion with motor vehicle insurers to see how best this situation might be addressed with their assistance.”
All of the complaints of motorcycle theft during the first three months of this year, report that the vehicle was secured with only the handlebar lock. The BPS once again encourages all motorcycle users to also use a secondary 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.
Thieves rely on speed and ease of removal when they steal a vehicle. The delay created by having to remove a secondary lock, could mean the difference between your bike being taken or not. Any person with any information on motorcycle theft is asked to reach out to Chief Inspector Cardwell on 247-1076. You may also call the main police number 295-0011, or 211.
If you’d prefer, please share the information with a police officer you know or by using the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.