Press release from 02.02.2024: Great success of EG Fahrrad - bikes and e-scooters worth over 110.00 euros seized - Several people remanded in custody
Here are the questions from 26 and 27 September 2023:
Which lock is the best?
There are many good locks. It is important to secure your bike several times and to attach it to firmly anchored objects.
Motto: Make it as difficult as possible for the perpetrator!
Where is the safest place to leave my bike in public?
Dark and inanimate places should be avoided. If you park your bike in public, it should be in busy places. However, public places are never a guarantee of safety.
How and where should I store or secure my bike at home?
The safest place is, of course, your home. If you store your bike in the cellar, it should also be secured. Bicycles are also stolen from locked cellars.
Is it permitted to store e-bikes, pedelecs and bicycles in garages, or does this contravene the NRW Garage Ordinance? These vehicles are not mentioned there by name.
We have discussed this with the Essen fire department. There is no reference to a ban on e-bikes or pedelecs in garages in the NRW Garage Ordinance.
Are there special GPS trackers?
There are various bicycle manufacturers who already install a GPS tracker. However, it is also possible to install additional GPS trackers.
Do I have to insure my bike?
There is no general insurance obligation. However, it is advisable to take out such insurance. Some household contents insurance policies already cover bicycle theft.
Do I have to register my bicycle to prove that it is my property?
It is advisable to keep the proof of purchase and the individual details of the bicycle. Coding the bike can help with its return.
I will receive proof of theft from the police for the insurance company?
When a report is filed, a certificate of report is generally issued.
What are the police actually doing now to reduce theft?
We have set up the investigation team so that the investigation can be centralized.
Where do I secure my bike when I am out and about if there is no bike stand nearby?
The best place is in busy areas and on firmly anchored objects, including lanterns and signs. A small bollard, on the other hand, is not suitable.
Where can I get a GPS tracker?
We are of course not allowed to recommend individual products. You can find out more from specialist retailers or on the Internet.
What should I do if my bike has been stolen?
It is best to call the police immediately. This is the only way we can act quickly.
When my bike was stolen, the police said it was unnecessary to call 110? Opinion?
Of course, this always depends on the individual case. If the bike was stolen a long time ago and any danger can be ruled out, then the normal telephone number can also be used. If you are not sure, it is always better to dial 110 once too often than once too little.
How much alcohol am I allowed to have on a bike?
The absolute impaired driving limit for bicycles is 1.6 per mille. From a blood alcohol level of 0.3 and signs of impairment, however, the offense is also fulfilled. But the general rule is: Don't Drink & Drive!
What is the recovery rate with and without a GPS tracker?
The Essen police do not keep differentiated statistics. Police work and the recovery of bicycles is greatly assisted by a GPS tracker.
How do you know if the police have found the thief who stole the bike?
If the bike is found and can be assigned to an owner, he or she will be contacted by the case handler.
My neighbor steals bikes. Every week 2-3 high-quality bikes. What should I do?
If you observe such a crime, please call the police on 110. For information on past crimes, please call the Essen police on 0201-8290. The EG Fahrrad will also deal with your tip.