Manchester bike hire operation ‘could be suspended in weeks’ due to thefts and vandalism

Mobike could suspend its operation in Manchester.

A bicycle hire company is threatening to pull out of Manchester due to an increase in theft and vandalism.

Mobike warned it will end its service in "weeks not months" unless there is a reduction in people stealing and damaging its bikes, which can be unlocked and parked anywhere with a mobile application.

Fifty bikes were damaged and abandoned in the first few weeks after the scheme launched in June last year, but the problem has grown in recent months.

The Chinese company said 10% of its Manchester fleet was taken out of use last month alone.

It described the figure as "unsustainable" and insisted it may make the "tough decision" to stop operating in the city as "we can’t keep putting bikes in which disappear."

Mobike bicycles have been found in waterways. Credit: PA

Bikes are being thrown in waterways, set on fire or left hanging from railings, while others are having locks smashed off to enable people to keep them.

Mobike says it is "actively pursuing civil prosecutions" for theft and intentional damage.

It also fines users £20 if they do not park bikes within the operating zone at the end of their ride.

Mobike is urging members of the public to contact the company to report thefts and vandalism.

Jan Van der Ven, Mobike’s UK general manager, said: "As a private business, we are only viable if our revenues cover our costs, and that is not possible with the current levels of bike loss in Manchester.

Chris Boardman, Greater Manchester’s cycling and walking commissioner, said the problems experienced by Mobike are "not unique" to the region, but warned, his plan to increase cycling is dependant on the existence of a hire scheme.

Mobike said 10% of its Manchester fleet was vandalised or stolen last month. Credit: PA

Chief Superintendent Wasim Chaudhry of Greater Manchester Police said: "Our officers are able to check the legitimate use of the Mobike system and we will investigate reports of suspected theft and vandalism just like we would if someone made a report about their own bike.

"We will always hold those we find breaking the law to account. We must all work together to keep our city safe and moving."

Mobike bicycles are picked up and left without the use of docking stations such as those used by Transport for London’s so-called Boris Bike scheme.

Users download an app which employs GPS technology to show them where the nearest available bicycle can be found. They then scan a QR code to release a lock.