After several burglaries in recent weeks where e-scooters and e-bikes have been stolen, ACT Policing is reminding the Canberra community to be aware when buying the electric items from online marketplaces.
Police say they are investigating several instances where items similar to those stolen have been advertised for sale online.
Officer in Charge of ACT Policing’s Proactive Intervention and Diversion Team, Inspector Craig McPherson advised prospective e-bike and e-scooter buyers to think before they buy.
“The old saying about something being too good to be true really does apply here,” Insp McPherson said.
“If you see a ‘brand new’ e-bike or an e-scooter offered for sale at a very cheap price, you should think twice before buying it.
“Buying stolen property not only rewards criminal behaviour, it can also put you in line to be charged for possessing stolen goods, or what you buy may be confiscated by police.
“They may also not function as expected, as some of them require a special code to be unlocked from their demonstrator mode.
“People should also be aware if they’re offered a bike or scooter without a charger, that retailers around the ACT are aware of these burglaries and may let police know about people looking to buy parts for a stolen unit.”
One man has already faced court in connection with the series of burglaries at commercial/business premises in recent weeks, and the ACT Policing investigation continues.
Anyone with information that can assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Please quote 7043995.
Information can be provided anonymously.
