Seven people have been arrested after officers executed a series of warrants linked to an investigation into motorbike thefts in Chelmsford.

Officers from our Operational Support Group, Chelmsford CID, and Chelmsford and Braintree neighbourhood policing teams entered properties in Chelmsford, Great Waltham, and Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire, at 8am this morning, Monday 31 March.

Further arrests were later made at a hotel in Chelmsford and a property in Danbury.

Two 18-year-olds and five juveniles were detained on suspicion of conspiracy to steal motor vehicles and taken to Chelmsford and Harlow police stations.

Searches of the properties led to the seizure of cash, mobile phones, clothing, tools, and two e-bikes.

The investigation is connected to footage circulating on social media of motorbike thefts and the taunting of victims.

Detective Chief Inspector Rob Huddleston said:

“We take all forms of vehicle crime seriously and our officers are working hard to track down stolen motorcycles and question individuals we believe may have information that would help our investigation.

“People rely on their motorbikes, they are expensive to replace and discovering your bike has been stolen is extremely distressing.

“Alongside the thefts, there have also been incidents of motorbikes being ridden irresponsibly with a complete disregard for other road users, putting both the riders and members of the public in danger. This is also completely unacceptable.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has come forward with CCTV and footage of bikes being taken. If you see a theft in progress, please call 999 and our officers will take action.”