Charges laid in search for 52 missing CRF250Fs

As far as stolen motorcycles go, this one’s at the upper end of misdemeanours – but justice could be prevailing.

On July 22, 2022, NSW police became aware that 52 Honda CRF250F trail bikes had been stolen from a shipping container in the Sydney suburb of Strathfield South.

A NSW stroke force was immediately assigned the case, and within weeks requested assistance from the Victorian Vehicle Crime Squad (VCS).

The overture appears to be bearing fruit, with detectives from the VCS now charging two men and recovering 11 of the allegedly stolen CRF250Fs from the shipping container.

VCS began by investigating reports several bikes had been transported to Victoria and, following several enquiries, executed two search warrants at two addresses in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

A 21-year-old was charged with two counts of handling stolen goods, and a 27-year-old man charged with nine counts of handling stolen goods. Both have been bailed to appear in court at later dates.

“We’ve worked closely with our New South Wales colleagues to return a number of bikes to the rightful owners,” said Detective Senior Sergeant John Dimos from the VCS. “However, there are still more stolen bikes out there that the community might be able to assist us in locating.

“If you see a brand-new bike being advertised online for an unusually low price, or if a seller profile looks suspicious, please screenshot it and come forward to police.

“We hope this sends a message that it doesn’t matter where you take stolen goods, police will work together and catch up with you.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.