Motorcycle owners have been hit hard this year, with police reporting more than 200 cases of vehicles stolen in the first three months of 2025.

Officers recovered 99 stolen cycles between January 1 and March 31 out of 208 total reports of theft.

Chief Inspector Robert Cardwell said police were working to determine evidential leads from several potential suspects, but needed people to co-operate to bring offenders to justice.

He explained: “Often hindering prosecution is that once a motorcycle is recovered, the complainant does not want to proceed with a prosecution after they’ve received financial settlement from their insurance company for the stolen bike.

“Without a complainant, we are unable to proceed. We are now in discussions with insurers to see how this situation might be addressed with their assistance.”

The Royal Gazette asked police if thefts might be orchestrated by people attempting to cash in on insurance payments — but a spokesman clarified that vehicle owners needed to file a police report to claim insurance.

Police encouraged owners never to leave keys in the ignition, secure their bikes with a handlebar and secondary lock — all stolen vehicles were reportedly only secured with the former — and park in well lit areas at night.

A statement added: “Thieves rely on speed and ease of removal when they steal a vehicle.

“The delay created by having to remove a secondary lock could mean the difference between your bike being taken or not.”

People with information on the thefts should contact Mr Cardwell on 247-1076 or the main police numbers, 295-0011 or 211.

They can also report the incident at portal.police.bm or speak with a familiar officer.