Police have seized a moped after footage circulating on social media prompted officers to trace and recover the vehicle, as part of a wider operation targeting thefts across Torbay.
The Neighbourhood Team in Torquay said it became aware of a video circulating on social media showing two individuals riding a moped in Paignton while wearing face coverings.
According to officers, ongoing work being carried out by the team in Torquay led neighbourhood officers to an address in Paignton, where they located and seized the moped seen in the video.
Police said a second moped, which was suspected to be stolen, was also found at the address and seized.
A homeowner, who police said is not believed to have been riding the moped, was spoken to in connection with the matter.
Officers said the response from the homeowner was “uncooperative” and that the matter would be progressed using civil orders and other relevant legislation.
The force said it was aware of public concern surrounding moped thefts and that officers in Torquay are prioritising investigations as part of a new operation.
Police said the initiative would cover all areas of Torbay, including Paignton, where they said the majority of thefts have been reported.
Officers also urged members of the public to report incidents directly to police, warning that even at low speeds the risk of injury from falling from a moped, particularly without protective clothing, is high.
The force said further updates would be provided in due course.
Guidance on protecting motorcycles, mopeds and scooters from theft is available via the link shared by police: https://orlo.uk/3vYt5
