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Police have seen an increase in motorbike thefts in the Charlbury area. We have also recovered stolen motorbikes that have been abandoned or left in the local area. We are therefore asking residents to remain vigilant. If you notice a motorbike that has suddenly appeared, appears to have been dumped or abandoned, has obvious damage to the ignition or locks, or is parked somewhere unusual and causes you concern, please report it to police. Motorbike owners are encouraged to use several layers of security wherever possible: Lock, chain and cover – use a good-quality disc lock and a heavy-duty chain secured to an immovable object. A cover can also make the bike less attractive to thieves.Ground anchor – at home, secure the bike to a professionally fitted ground or wall anchor.Steering lock – always engage it, even when leaving the bike for a short period.Alarmed disc lock – these activate if the bike is moved or tampered with and can draw attention to an attempted theft.Tracker – consider fitting a GPS tracker. This can significantly assist in locating a bike if it is stolen.Immobiliser/alarm – additional electronic security can make the bike more difficult to steal.Secure storage – where possible, keep your motorbike inside a locked garage or secure outbuilding and strengthen doors, locks and hinges.CCTV or video doorbell – position cameras to cover the area where the bike is normally kept.Keep keys secure – don’t leave keys near doors, windows or somewhere easily accessible.Record the details – keep photographs of your bike and make a note of the registration, VIN/chassis number and any distinguishing features.If you see a motorbike that you believe may have been dumped, abandoned or stolen, or one has recently appeared in your area in suspicious circumstances, please report it to police via 101 or online. If you witness a motorbike being stolen or a crime is taking place at that moment, call 999. Your information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could help us identify stolen vehicles and those responsible for these offences. | 
