Two Men Arrested After Police Air Support Tracks Down Suspected Stolen Motorbike Riders In Eastbourne

Two men have been arrested following a coordinated police response after an off-duty officer spotted two motorcycles being ridden dangerously in the Eastbourne area.

At around 11.40pm on Wednesday (3 June), the officer observed the motorcycles in the Shinewater area and alerted colleagues after concerns were raised about their manner of riding.

One of the bikes was reportedly showing no registration plate, and the riders were also believed to be carrying fuel canisters.

Officers say that, given ongoing issues with stolen motorcycles in the area, a rapid search operation was launched.

The motorcycles were later located on Willingdon Drove, where officers attempted to stop them.

However, the riders failed to stop and made off through Eastbourne, leading to a coordinated response involving local police teams, operational support units and the National Police Air Service (NPAS).

Although the bikes were initially lost after travelling along routes inaccessible to police vehicles, officers were able to establish a containment area with support from the police helicopter.

The motorcycles were later found near Robin Post Lane, outside Hailsham.

Officers, guided by NPAS, searched nearby woodland and both suspects were detained.

During searches, officers recovered discarded helmets and tools believed to be linked to motorcycle thefts, including a hammer and two screwdrivers.

A 20-year-old man from Hailsham was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and going equipped for theft.

A 19-year-old man from Eastbourne was arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police and going equipped for theft. Both remain in custody.

Eastbourne District Commander Chief Inspector Kara Tombling said the arrests were the result of strong teamwork between officers on the ground and air support.

She said the response demonstrated “the effectiveness of teamwork across policing teams in tackling vehicle crime and keeping communities safe.”