Arrests after 15 bike thefts in one night

Three youths have been arrested after 15 bikes were stolen within a few miles of each other in one night.

The bikes were stolen on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning in Weymouth and Portland, Dorset.

Two boys from Weymouth aged 13 and 14 and a 17-year-old of no fixed abode were arrested after police received reports of youths riding the bikes.

A number of the machines were found dumped.

Sam Johnson, 24, whose Honda CBR250R was stolen from outside his house, told the Dorset Echo: “I’m really lucky I got it back but it’s quite damaged.

“The ignition has been smashed in and the steering lock has been broken so I can’t drive it now.

“There was another bike dumped in a ditch on the causeway. I’m lucky mine hasn’t been more badly damaged.”

Inspector Les Fry, of Weymouth and Portland Police, said: “We are investigating a number of reports of low-powered motorbike thefts across the Weymouth and Portland area that took place overnight on Tuesday.

“I believe that all these reports are connected and it may be that the same people are responsible for these incidents.

“The loss of these vehicles has had a devastating effect on the victims, most being young, causing massive inconvenience and expense.

“It appears that at least three or four boys were acting suspiciously in the area and I am keen to speak to anyone who might have seen something.”