Appeal for information following attempted bicycle theft in Bristol

We’re aware of footage circulating on social media that appears to show a member of the public intervening in the attempted theft of a bicycle in Bristol.

The incident has not yet been formally reported to police, but is believed to have taken place recently, during daylight hours, at the junction of College Street and Deanery Road.

The footage appears to show two individuals wearing face coverings attempting to steal a light blue bicycle before being challenged by a member of the public. It is believed they subsequently left the area without taking the bike.

While the matter was not reported at the time, it has now been recorded as a crime by officers and enquiries are ongoing. Officers are particularly keen to identify any witnesses, as well as the owner of the bicycle involved.

Inspector John Shaddick, from the Bristol Central Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:

“We recognise the concern incidents like this can cause and would like to reassure the public that enquiries are underway to identify those involved.

“I’d like to thank those members of the public who have sought to intervene and prevent a theft from taking place. However, I would urge people not to put themselves in harm’s way. Offenders can act unpredictably when challenged, and if a crime is in progress, the safest course of action is always to call 999.

“If it is safe to do so, recording video footage or taking photographs of those involved can provide valuable evidence to help us identify offenders, build intelligence and take positive action. Descriptions of those involved, as well as details such as vehicle registrations, can also provide important lines of enquiry.

“Officers are already carrying out enquiries into a number of other bike thefts in the area and we believe this may be linked. We’d encourage anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, to get in touch. Information provided by the public helps us build a clearer picture of offending, identify those responsible and take action to prevent further crimes.

“Public vigilance plays an important role in helping us tackle this type of offending, but we would never encourage anyone to place themselves at risk.

“We are particularly keen to identify the witnesses seen in the footage, as well as the owner of the bicycle involved. Anyone with information that could assist our investigation is asked to call 101 and quote reference 5226272534.”