Positive steps by Merseyside Police regarding stolen off-road bikes

http://www.merseyside.police.uk/protecting-you/scrambler-bikes.aspx and
e-mail Vehicle.Crime.Group@Merseyside.police.uk quoting the reference number if people think the bike belongs to them. Give as much information regarding why you think the bike is yours. Examples include – identifying features/marks, which are not on the pictures, specialist modifications not on the picture, identity features or photographs you may have of your stolen machine. One of our specialist vehicle examiners will look into the information you provide and contact you if necessary.

Since starting the scheme in the last six weeks, victims of theft have been delighted that their machines have been found and also security marked with a Datatag system and registered to reduce the chance of their machine being stolen again.

There has been a reduction in the number of people asking for the return of the bikes we have recovered. It seems some people are not keen to have the machines linked to them suggesting they were destined to be used in crime.

We would encourage lawful off road bike owners to register their machines on the DVLA off road register. The full details can be found on www.direct.gov.uk website ‘Protect your off road vehicle’ (INF85). You will receive a logbook with a ‘Q’ prefix registration number. You do not have to display the plate, pay tax or have an MOT. Ordinarily you will have to take the machine to a DVLA local office for a vehicle examiner to look. As part of this scheme Merseyside Police vehicle examiners can register these bikes on behalf of the DVLA. Subject to demand the Vehicle Crime Group will arrange ‘register it days’ to protect law abiding off road bike enthusiasts.

All enquires will be coordinated through the email address vehicle.crime.group@merseyside.police.uk