Police warn homeowners to be on the lookout for thieves on bikes

Edmonton police are warning citizens to be on the watch for strangers in their neighbourhood – on bike or on foot – who appear to be looking into vehicles, yards or back alleys.

Police say criminals are using bikes to scout for break-in opportunities in homes, garages and vehicles.

“Criminals on bikes can get in and out of a community quickly, attracting less attention than if they were walking through the neighbourhood,” said Const. Christopher Lucas. “We have found they often wear backpacks or pull a child chariot carriage behind a bike as an easy way to conceal and transport stolen merchandise.”

And given a recent spike of property theft across the city, police are asking citizens to notify them of any suspicious activity in their community.

To report any suspicious persons or suspicious activity call the non-emergency complaint line, 780-423-4567. To report a crime in progress, dial 911.