A GOVERNMENT LED, multi-agency taskforce, aimed at cracking down on moped crime in London, is to be extended to the rest of the UK to help tackle a nationwide increase in vehicle crime.
Moped-enabled crimes in the capital have fallen by 56% because of targeted police operations, supported by both local government and the MCIA.
- The initiatives credit with cutting the crime statistics includes:
- Work undertaken to tackle moped crime includes:
- Operational activity led by the Metropolitan Police in hotspot areas
- A government consultation on police pursuits
- Developing an industry standard for built-in theft deterrents
- A review of the range of offences, sentences and maximum penalties for these crimes
Chairing today’s meeting of the moped taskforce, which brings together representatives from the Metropolitan Police, local government and motorcycle industry bodies, was Policing Minister Nick Hurd: “Today’s figures are testament to the fantastic work achieved by the Metropolitan Police and I’m pleased this crime has fallen by so much, so quickly.
“The Met have done a superb job of targeting hotspot areas and deploying innovative and highly effective methods for stopping moped gangs in their tracks. I’m excited to see what we can achieve by applying a similar response to vehicle theft.”
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Graham McNulty, National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Vehicle Crime, said: “The reductions achieved in this crime type show the encouraging results that can be achieved when there is a strong focus on enforcement complemented with committed partnership working. I am grateful to our partners in the public, private and third sectors who have all played their part alongside the steadfast and relentless operational teams who have delivered outstanding results.
“These reductions are just a start and it is imperative that we continue to work together to ensure that we build on these solid foundations and further reduce harm to the people of London.”
Tony Campbell, Chief Executive of the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) said: “We are very pleased to see a significant reduction in the number of motorcycle and scooter thefts in London. The Home Office organised roundtable, which invited all stakeholders to coordinate efforts, has been extremely effective.
“The MCIA, along with support from its manufacturer members, have played an active role in this effort and we will continue to do so over the coming months and years. The MCIA secured initiative announced in June, will go further towards dealing with the problem of theft and enabled crime.”
Jan Hart of Islington Council shared their local strategy which contributed in moped crime falling 60%. The council introduced a range of measures including tactically placed street furniture to block escape routes, new CCTV, and street lighting in key locations and improved security to moped bays.
Following the recent rise in thefts of vehicles, the same strategy will be introduced to tackle this emerging threat which, according to the latest crime statistics, increased 17% in the year ending March 2018.
