Do not leave bicycles unattended!

June 25, 2025

Every year, more and more citizens acquire new bicycles and personal mobility devices: scooters, hoverboards, segways, monowheels, etc. At the same time, the number of thefts of these means of transport is also growing. A bicycle is a valuable and often carelessly stored possession. Criminals take advantage of this carelessness and negligence.

The only guaranteed way to protect your property is not to leave it unattended. If you have to leave your bicycle, be sure to lock it with a bicycle lock, even if you are only away for a minute. When locking it to a fence, railing, or similar structure, make sure it is reliable and stable. Lock it by the wheel and frame, and if the cable length allows, by both wheels and the frame. Don't forget to take all removable equipment with you: bike computer, lights, pump, water bottle. If you ride your bicycle to work, try to leave it on the company premises or inside the building in a utility room.

Keep the documents you received from the store when purchasing the bicycle. If for some reason you do not have the documents, be sure to write down or photograph the serial number of the frame (it is usually stamped on the bottom bracket). It is also advisable to take a full-profile photograph of the bicycle. Try to remember its distinctive features: non-original parts, installed accessories, stickers, scratches, and other damage. In case of theft, all this will significantly help in the search and may be decisive in proving your ownership. Remember that by buying a bicycle without documents, you risk becoming the owner of a stolen "steed."

In case of bicycle theft, immediately report it to the Glubokoye District Department of Internal Affairs 24/7 by calling the duty officer service: 8(02156)3-08-59, 8(029) 597-21-74, as well as by dialing 102. Note or write down the time of the theft. Inspect the scene of the incident. Look for video surveillance cameras in the vicinity. Try to find witnesses and record their phone numbers. Post information about the stolen bicycle on social media. Inform all your cyclist friends about the theft: it is possible that someone they know might spot your bicycle in the city. Browse local advertisements for used bicycles: there is a chance you might find your two-wheeled friend there. If you manage to find your bicycle yourself, do not try to take it back from the new owner, especially by force. Immediately call the police: further proceedings are our responsibility.

As for individuals intending to seize someone else's property, I would like to remind them of Article 205 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus. According to it, theft is punishable by public works, or a fine, or correctional labor for up to 2 years, or arrest, or restriction of liberty for up to 3 years, or imprisonment for the same term. Theft committed repeatedly, or by a group of persons, or with unauthorized entry into a dwelling, is punishable by correctional labor for up to 2 years, or arrest, or restriction of liberty for up to 4 years, or imprisonment for the same term.