Operation Downcast sees decrease in motorbike thefts and attempted thefts

An operation set up to bring about a decrease in thefts and attempted thefts is deemed to have been a success within just a few short months.

Ilkeston Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team launched Operation Downcast to specifically fight crime of this time, allow officers to secure and obtain the best evidence and to see through a positive prosecution where possible.

It came in response to a sudden spike in thefts and attempted thefts of motorbikes in the Ilkeston area in November 2023.

Since then though, several significant arrests have been made with bail conditions being placed on said Individuals to allow investigations to continue.

The hope is that the decrease will be sustained in the months to come as the operation continues. 

As well as increased patrols in specific locations, over 200 bike locks have now been collected from Ilkeston Police station as well as vehicle marking kits.

Investigations are ongoing into the individuals involved and a further update will be published in due course.