Three people arrested as officers tackle use of cycle hire bikes by criminals

Over the past couple of months GMP Transport Unit have been working closely with TravelSafe partners Beryl and TfGM to combat the criminal use of Greater Manchester Cycle Hire Scheme bikes.

Numerous stolen and damaged bikes have been recovered during these joint patrols and three arrests made.  

• On September 2 2023, a man and woman were arrested at an address in East Manchester where a damaged cycle hire bike was recovered. Further checks revealed the woman was already wanted by police having been recalled to prison for failing to comply with her licence so was duly returned to the prison service.
• On September 11 2023, a 24-year-old man riding a cycle hire bike attempted to make off from Transport Unit officers in South Manchester. He was chased and detained. He was charged with handling stolen goods and failing to stop for a police officer. He will appear at court in October.
• On September 11 2023, a 39-year-old man was arrested on Deansgate on a stolen cycle hire bike and charged with handling stolen goods. He was remanded to appear at court.
• On September 15 2023, a 31-year-old man was arrested on Portland Street riding a suspected stolen cycle hire bike. He remains in police custody as the investigation is being progressed.

Chief Inspector Ronnie Neilson, of GMP’s Transport Unit, said: “These cycle hire bikes are designed to help people get around and enjoy Greater Manchester, they are not for criminals to use for their advantage.

“This partnership work is vital in us tackling criminal behaviour and ultimately making our transport networks safer.

“Criminals misusing these bikes will be challenged. The few should not ruin it for the many who experience more of Greater Manchester thanks to the cycle hire bikes.”

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, added: “Over the last few months the Greater Manchester TravelSafe Partnership have been working tirelessly to safeguard our cycle hire scheme and take robust action against the minority who are abusing it.

“These results show how serious we are about tacking crime and antisocial behaviour, and demonstrates that the wider recovery plan which we put in over the summer is producing results.

"It also underlines our commitment to the Greater Manchester cycle hire scheme, which plays a vital role in our plans for the Bee Network. More people are using the bikes every day, and I want to thank the vast majority of people who are using the scheme responsibly for their patience."

Any information regarding criminal use and storage of stolen cycle hire bikes can be reported to GMP Transport Unit on 0161 856 6758 or anonymously to Crimestoppers 0800 555111.