E-bikes stolen from shed after Facebook Marketplace advert

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 10:02 · Archive

Expensive electric bikes were stolen from a secure shed in the Cotswolds after being advertised on Facebook Marketplace.

Expensive e-bikes were stolen from a secure outbuilding at a property in Finstock, near Chipping Norton, in the Cotswolds. The bicycles had recently been advertised for sale on Facebook Marketplace before the burglary occurred.

Thames Valley Police said information shared through the advertisements or conversations with potential buyers may have helped those responsible identify the location where the bicycles were being stored. A police spokesperson said: 'There is a possibility that information shared through the advertisements or conversations with potential buyers may have helped those responsible identify the location where the bicycles were being stored. Although this has not been confirmed, it serves as an important reminder to be cautious when selling valuable items online.'

The force issued guidance for staying safe while selling online. This included protecting personal information, ensuring pictures do not reveal details of a property or location, arranging safe meeting locations, being cautious of suspicious enquiries, and keeping valuables secure. Sellers were also advised to 'trust their instincts' and end a transaction if a potential buyer seems overly interested in the property or other details rather than the item being sold.

The police spokesperson added that 'criminals can use information shared online to identify valuable property and potentially vulnerable locations' and urged people to 'remain vigilant' about what personal information they share when advertising items for sale.

How it is being reported

• E-bikes stolen from 'secure' shed after Facebook Marketplace advertThe 'expensive' electric bikes were stolen from a 'secure' shed in the Cotswolds after being advertised for sale on Facebook Marketplace.Oxford Mail · 24 Oct, 09:14
• E-bikes stolen from 'secure' shed after Facebook Marketplace advertThe 'expensive' electric bikes were stolen from a 'secure' shed in the Cotswolds after being advertised for sale on Facebook Marketplace.Oxfordshire Guardian · 24 Oct, 09:14

In this story: Thames Valley Police · Finstock · Chipping Norton · Cotswolds · Facebook Marketplace

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