A 30-STRONG police cycle task force’ has hit the streets to tackle London’s growing wave of bike thefts. The two-wheel patrols are targeting organised cycle theft and criminal damage

By Mike Brooke

A 30-STRONG police cycle 'task force' has hit the streets to tackle London's growing wave of bike thefts.

The two-wheel patrols are targeting cycle theft and criminal damage to bicycles, working with neighbourhood police and transport police teams.

The squad is part of City Hall's draft Cycle Security Plan to puncture organised cycle theft and disrupt the trade of stolen second-hand bikes on websites.

The cycle cops are also running undercover operations as well as high visibility patrols in crime 'hot spots.'

Part of the overall plan is setting up CCTV and better lighting at cycle parking locations to help prevent theft and deter criminals.