SOUTH Side cyclists have been warned to remain vigilant by police after a spate of bike thefts in the area.

Chief Inspector Janie Thompson Goldie said: “Unfortunately we have seen a high number of bike thefts since the start of lockdown in the south side and it is important that people remain vigilant and make it as difficult as possible for criminals to steal their property."

Police confirmed that over 200 thefts of bikes in the South Side had been reported over the summer months, with 19 reported in the past fortnight alone.

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Cyclists took to social media to report the thefts in the area.

One resident said: "Thieves have stolen my bike this evening at 6pm in Eglinton Toll area (Barrland st).

"If you see any of them or my bike, please contact police immediately!"

Other reports currently being investigated include thefts in Waverley Gardens, Bolton Street, Harries Road and an attempted theft on the corner of Skirving Street and Pollokshaws Road.

CI Goldie, who took up the South East sub division area commander post around three months ago, said: “Always lock your bike up every time you leave it and it is worth investing in the best lock you can afford to protect your property.

"Lock your bike in a busy, well-lit place, in view of people or CCTV cameras and if you’re leaving it in a close try and make sure it is out of sight of the doorway."

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The South East division have recently encouraged South Side cyclists to take advantage of events, including 'bike marking' events which recently took place in Govan, Queen's Park and at Pollokshields Primary School.

Speaking previously on the safety events, Sargeant Kenny Smith said: "With lockdown, bikes have become extremely popular."

"A lot of folks have been buying bikes and by that definition, they become more popular to steal because they are easier to sell on and people are looking for them so it's just about providing that wee bit of reassurance for people buying bikes at the moment."

CI Goldie reassured that extra patrols will be seen on the South Side streets to help cyclists with the current spate of incidents.

She said: “Local officers are regularly out on patrol to act as a deterrent and are holding ongoing bike marking events in the South Side to raise awareness of the issue.

"I would also encourage the local community to look out for each other and report any suspicious activity to police through 101.”