GPS helps police return electric motorcycle to owner

A Coquitlam motorcyclist can now get the rubber back on the road, due in part to a GPS tracking device.

Atharva Sangani’s electric motorcycle was stolen in Coquitlam on May 15. Sangani immediately tracked the bike with GPS and sent the location to police.

A few hours later, Coquitlam RCMP Const. Scott Shaw spotted “something shiny deep in the bushes,” according to a release from the department. Police retrieved the motorcycle and confirmed ownership.

“Once I called the police, they were there very quickly and located my motorcycle. They made me feel comfortable and I am extremely happy to have my motorcycle back,” Sangani stated in a Coquitlam RCMP release.

Theft prevention tips

Police recommend installing a portable GPS tracker in your motorcycle and taking a picture of your bike to help police with identification.

However, don’t set the Home functions on your GPS to your home address, police advise. Choose a nearby intersection or other landmark that prevent criminals from knowing where you live.

Police recommend buying a passive immobilizer or using a steering wheel lock when you park your vehicle.

It’s critical not to keep spare keys or your garage door opener in your car, as finding those items can prompt a thief to steal the car or target the driver’s home.

RCMP also advise drivers to secure their licence plate with bolts. Criminals sometimes steal licence plates to avoid being identified while committing other crimes.