TWO stolen mopeds have been successfully recovered by police in Teignmouth as part of Operation Hawkbox.

Op Hawkbox is the name given to the Policing Teams response to these thefts as there has been a marked increase in moped thefts with five reported this month.

On their Facebook page this evening, Thursday, Teignmouth and Dawlish Police report: 'Additional patrols solely related to this operation have been regularly taking place across Teignbridge to catch and deter the culprits of this offending.

'We advise anyone who owns a motorbike, moped or quad bike to make sure they are secured, as there has been an increase in moped thefts in Teignmouth and Dawlish, with five reported this month.

'If you are able, please store your motorcycle or moped in your garage or shed.

No shed or garage? Park in the safest place you can.

'Lock it up, possibly with a disc lock to help secure the brake and throttle controls.

'Use a “D” lock on the front wheel to stop it being wheeled away.

'Use a chain lock through the back wheel as the front wheel can be removed.

'Think about using a cover, thieves often ‘shop’ for a particular bike model.

'Please report any information relating to moped thefts and crime to https://crowd.in/M4vnjg.

'If you wish to remain anonymous, via Crimestoppers https://crowd.in/5Zs7CN#OP Hawkbox#NeighbourhoodPolicingDevon