Rash of scooter, motorcycle thefts in South Philadelphia, Center City

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Police are investigating a rash of scooter and motorcycle thefts across the city from South Philadelphia to Center City - and most of the bikes were locked up at the time.

Surveillance video released by police Wednesday shows an incident from May 21st.

Just after 8:00 p.m., a white Econoline van pulled up to a secured garage at 17th and Locust streets.

One man was behind the wheel while two others are seen getting out.

The suspects forced open a metal grate and wheeled out two motorcycles - loading them into the back of the van.

Motorcycles and scooters have been disappearing off the streets of South Philadelphia and Center City at an alarming rate over the past two months.

This map shows exactly where it's happened.

"Since April 1st, we've had 19 scooters and or motorcycles stolen in primarily south Philadelphia - two have been stolen in Center City," said Sgt. Dan Buckley, Philadelphia Police.

"They're not cheap. A bike's about $4000 so that's gone - poof," said Sean Theobald, Philadelphia Scooters.

Theobald is the general manager of Philadelphia Scooters in South Philadelphia.

He's been hearing from some of his customers who've had their scooters stolen in recent weeks.

Most of the bikes stolen have been locked - but the suspects just cut the weak locks - or lifted them right up off the pole if it's low.

"So they just picked it up over the pole. The bikes only weight 200 pounds or so - throw it in a big van and off they go," said Theobald.

He recommends buying a heavy duty lock. Some come with a price tag of more than $100 but they are a good deterrent for thieves on the prowl.

"The simple stuff - keeping it locked, keeping it covered - make it easier for them to go to the next person who inevitably won't be locked," said Theobald.

Police say take every step you can - don't just lock it up - but bring the scooter or motorcycle inside and keep an eye out for any suspicious vans around the area.

"The bikes are out there and if they're not secure these groups are gonna take advantage so you need to secure the bikes. Anyone else that sees someone acting suspicious please call 911 - let us know," said Sgt. Buckley.

Theobald also adds that it's worth it to get full insurance coverage - it only costs you a couple hundred dollars a year. And depending on the damage, the bike can be replaced all together.

So far, eight of the stolen scooters have been found - all of them in Camden. Most have been stripped or beat up beyond repair.