Drugs, weapons and suspected stolen bikes seized in vehicle crime crackdown in Doncaster

Officers in Doncaster have arrested nine people and seized over a dozen suspected stolen vehicles as part of an operation targeting vehicle crime and associated anti-social behaviour in the city.

Last year, officers listened to residents' concerns around vehicles being stolen and off-road bikes being ridden in a dangerous and anti-social manner in local communities.

This prompted the launch of the dedicated Operation Spoke Alpha, which has resulted in the number of motorbike thefts in Doncaster being more than halved with a 53 per cent reduction in reported offences.

On Wednesday (13 May), officers who have been gathering a wealth of intelligence on premises suspected of being used to house stolen motorbikes and quad bikes executed a series of warrants.

The early morning raids saw them seize 11 suspected stolen vehicles and six plant machinery vehicles suspected of being stolen.

Officers also recovered a number of dangerous weapons, including six shotguns, four swords, three knives and several air weapons. They also seized thousands of pounds' worth of suspected Class A and B drugs along with an unregistered XL Bully.

Nine people were arrested and brought into custody, with suspects detained on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

Doncaster Neighbourhoods Chief Inspector Joe Hunt said: "We heard and recognised the frustration and concern from residents in Doncaster around vehicle crime and dangerous off-road bikes, and we have taken action through Operation Spoke Alpha, which was built around that community intelligence.

"These results show exactly what happens when people report their concerns and suspicions and tell us what’s going on in their local communities - we act.

"We will continue to target those who steal vehicles, ride off‑road bikes dangerously, and bring associated antisocial behaviour into our neighbourhoods.

"We will continue to pursue individuals threatening the safety of our communities and if you are one of those indulging in this type of criminality, please know that we will find you and we will take action to keep the people of Doncaster safe from harm."

Speedwatch operations were also conducted by officers in hotspot locations across Doncaster, with our safety camera van also deployed. In total, 18 speeding tickets were given to drivers found breaking the speed limit.

Our Motorcycle and Rural Crime Team carried out patrols to deter against nuisance off-road bikes, with officers and PCSOs speaking to members of the public at pop-up police stalls.

How to report information to us

If you are concerned about vehicle crime, including the theft of motorbikes, quad bikes and cars, for example, as well as suspected vehicle 'chop shops', please get in touch with us.

We also want to hear from you if you spot off-road bikes being ridden illegally or dangerously in local communities in Doncaster.

You can contact us on the non-emergency 101 number or by making a report via our website. Please include as much detail as possible when reporting information to us.

Remember, in an emergency, including when a person's life is at risk, always call 999.

We understand some people may not wish to report information to us directly. If that is you and you wish to stay anonymous, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting the Crimestoppers website.

No one will know you have contacted them and your details will remain confidential.