Quad bikes stolen from farmer found dumped in Leeds

The bikes were stolen at 2am from a rural farm between Harrogate and Otley on Thursday, April 20.

After hearing the sound of the quads being driven away, the farmer called the police.

However, as the quads had a vehicle tracker on, police were quick to trace the bikes.

The red and black Honda bikes were tracked were tracked heading towards Bradford and officers immediately passed the details to West Yorkshire Police colleagues.

At 2.50am, guided by the vehicle tracker, officers located one of the stolen quads abandoned in the Bolton Woods area of Bradford.

A few hours later, the second stolen quad was also found, in the Yeadon area.

Both have now been returned to their rightful owner.

Inspector Matt Hagen, of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Taskforce, said: “Unfortunately, quad bikes in remote, rural areas are often targeted by thieves.

“Quite apart from its monetary value, the loss of a quad can have a really significant impact on a farm or other rural business – particularly in these difficult times, when farmers really cannot afford any further disruption.

“The good news is security measures, in particular vehicle trackers, can be extremely effective. In this case, we have managed to recover two stolen quad bikes the very same night they were stolen, thanks to trackers.

"With the Coronavirus restrictions in place, far fewer people are making journeys, which can make suspicious activity – like unusual vehicle movements through rural areas late at night – stand out even more.

“Police patrols in rural areas have not stopped, so if you see or hear anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to call us, and we can respond immediately if needed, as we did last night."

Officers from North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Taskforce are investigating the theft of both quads, and enquiries are ongoing.

Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting reference 12200071719 – or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

North Yorkshire Police advice to quad bike owners:

- Park as close to your premises as possible, ideally in a locked outbuilding with CCTV and security lighting, preferably out of sight from nearby roads.

- Remove keys when not in use, and do not leave them near the quad.

- Fit a GPS tracking device.

- Secure with wheel clamps and/or locking posts, and consider an alarm.

- Mark or customise your quad so it is easily identifiable.

- Keep a record of all vehicles, including photographs and serial numbers.Insp Hagen added: “

“If a crime is in progress, or someone suspected of a crime is nearby – call 999. If you don’t need an emergency response, please report anything suspicious to us using the 101 phone number. Any piece of information could help us build up a picture and bring criminals to justice.”