A routine intelligence tip-off led Folkestone’s Community Safety Unit down an unexpected path this week, culminating in a dramatic discovery thanks to a spy in the sky.
Acting on information about suspected stolen bicycles at a Cheriton Road property, officers deployed a police drone, whose soaring lens quickly revealed a suspected graveyard of bikes and e-scooters stashed in the back garden. The high-tech reconnaissance led to the seizure of 12 bicycles and two e-scooters and the arrest of a 71-year-old man on suspicion of theft and handling stolen goods. He has since been bailed as investigations continue.
If you believe your stolen bicycle or e-scooter may be among those pictured above, contact the East Kent appeals line at 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/122903/25. To claim, you’ll need proof of purchase, a serial number, or unique identifying features. To claim the bike, proof of purchase, a serial number, and/or details of unique identifying features will be required. You can find advice on how to keep your bike safe from theft on our advice page: Protect your bike from theft | Kent Police