A GANG of suspected bicycle thieves who have targeted NHS workers as they battle the Covid-19 pandemic have been arrested.

Four members of staff at the Royal Victoria Infirmary and the Freeman Hospital, both in Newcastle, had their bikes stolen in just three days.

One particular hospital worker had completed a 14-hour shift at the Freeman Hospital before she discovered that her bicycle had been taken.

In a bid to combat the continued thefts of bicycles in and around the city, Northumbria Police’s Operation Benelli team have ran a series of sting operations.

The force said that the team’s most recent action led to five arrests in just two days and the recovery of twelve stolen bicycles.

The sting followed the arrest of two suspected thieves earlier this month.

On that occasion, the taskforce planted a decoy bicycle in the city centre and watched on as the suspected thieves approached the bicycle.

When it appeared the pair were attempting to steal it, officers stepped in to arrest them and the two men are due to appear in court.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “It is shocking that NHS staff continue to be targeted and we will do all we can to deter this offending.

“But we also need your continued support and if you see anyone acting in a suspicious manner we would ask you to call us or report it online.

“If you own a bicycle then please consider using a D-lock to secure your bicycle and deter any opportunistic thieves.”

To contact Northumbria Police call non-emergency number 101 or visit northumbria.police.uk