Police have revealed a huge increase in motorcycle thefts in the last year.

Since the same time last year, reports of stolen bikes have jumped by 50 percent and police are now urging the public to help find the culprits and reverse the apparent trend.

A Police spokesman said: “Members of the public are reminded to lock their cycles using the handlebar lock as well as a supplementary lock before leaving them unattended and to report any suspicious persons or activity around parked cycles in their neighbourhoods, especially unknown individuals using trucks.

“In addition, residents should be wary of unauthorised cycle part suppliers, as the source of their inventory may be suspect.

“Detectives are encouraging anyone with relevant information regarding the whereabouts of suspected stolen motorcycles, auxiliary cycles or suspected stolen cycle parts to contact the main police telephone number 295-0011 at the earliest opportunity.”