Vigilantes Reunite Owners with Stolen Bikes (The Guardian)

The Guardian writes that volunteer groups in the UK, such as Stolen Ride, use social media and digital sleuthing to help reunite bike theft victims with their property. These “vigilantes” monitor online marketplaces, set up sting operations, and coordinate with police, often succeeding where official investigations stall. The article highlights several success stories, the emotional toll of theft, and the legal gray areas volunteers navigate. While their efforts sometimes risk confrontation and legal complications, they fill a gap left by under-resourced police and low recovery rates. The movement is growing as bike theft rises, especially in cities, and as cycling becomes more popular during the pandemic[1].