An increase in the number of motorcycle thefts in the city has prompted a crime prevention advisory from the police.
Two motorcycles have been stolen and there was one attempted theft early this morning, says Timmins Police.
A blue 1987 Honda Magna was stolen from a Rea Street South residence, and a black 207 Suzuki DR-200 endure-style motorcycle was stolen on Way Street.
Police are also investigating the attempted theft that happened on Columbus Street.
Officers are reviewing CCTV as part of the investigations and are asking area residents to review camera footage.
"It is apparent that, with the warmer weather and prolonged daylight taking hold, petty criminals are taking advantage of property owners by means of thefts of these vehicles," said police in a news release.
Motorcycle owners are urged to secure their vehicles in locked storage facilities. For vehicles being stored outdoors, police advise using locking devices.
"These are not sophisticated criminals by any means so whatever measures a property owner takes on to “harden the target” so that the risk of being seen or caught is greater, will likely deter incidents of theft," said police.
Because the thefts appear to be "crimes of opportunity" police are also asking people to:
- Have quality locking devices such as a deadbolt installed on access points to shed or garages.
- Install proper lighting or motion sensors.
- Keep your shed or garage locked even when you're at home
- Check the socks on doors and windows and replace them with secure devices
- Have someone you trust routinely check your property if you're going on vacation
- Store lawnmowers, snowblowers, barbecues and bicycles out of sight in a locked shed or garage
- Never leave notes on your door indicating you are not home
Anyone with information on the recent thefts is asked to call police at 705-264-1201. To remain anonymous, call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
