Mechelen (Brussels Morning Newspaper): MA was arrested on August 22 for stealing bicycles in Mechelen, linked to five thefts captured on surveillance. Authorities seek an 18-month prison sentence and €1,600 fine, with a verdict on November 27.
MA, a man wanted by the police, is linked to several bicycle thefts in Mechelen. The thefts occured in July and August, and cameras captured clear evidence of his actions. Surveillance footage from Mechelen station shows him in at least five separate incidents, walking to the platform with stolen bicycles before getting on a train. In some cases, he was spotted taking bikes directly from the station’s storage shed and leaving on them.
What are the charges against MA for bicycle thefts in Mechelen?
The police tracked MA’s activities and arrested him at Mechelen station on August 22. He was found with a minor, acting suspiciously near the station, likely planning another bike theft. The public prosecutor confirmed the thefts and noted that there is recorded evidence of MA regularly taking bikes from the station to use or sell. His arrest ended his stealing spree, and authorities are now concerned about the minor’s involvement in his actions.
In Brussels, stolen bicycles were being sold. The young man involved had no problem stealing bikes multiple times. Three months before the Mechelen thefts, he received a five-year suspended prison sentence for other crimes. He was under supervision with an ankle monitor but cut it off. The Public Prosecution Service is seeking a strict punishment of 18 months in prison and a fine of 1,600 euros. The verdict will be announced on November 27.
