Number of bike thefts fall in Brighton and Hove
Operation Ensnare was launched by Brighton and Hove police at the end of September, to tackle to the rising number of bike thefts in the city.
Sergeant James Ward said: "The overall decrease across the Brighton and Hove division in November for reported pedal cycle thefts was 48 per cent, which is positive. In the east Brighton area we saw a drop of 71 per cent.
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Hide Ad"We have recovered dozens of stolen bikes and have been able to reunite some owners with their bikes. Recently we were able to give back a bike which had been bought by the owner's late grandfather and had great sentimental value. He thought he would never see it again so he was delighted to have it back."
Police said they have made several arrests during the operation including detaining five teenage boys on suspicion of stealing bikes. They have been released under investigation.
The recovered bikes (pictured) are stored at Brighton Police Station.
Sgt Ward said: "We are making enquiries to try and trace the bike owners but if anyone who has had a bike stolen recognises it from the photo or wants to know if it has been recovered, should get in touch with us."
Contact police online or ring 101 quoting Operation Ensnare.