Two arrested in west Belfast after suspected stolen motorcycle recovered
Two people arrested in west Belfast following reports of a suspected stolen motorcycle have been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
The pair, aged 17 and 20, were arrested on Wednesday 21 October on suspicion of offences including theft of a vehicle, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.
Police said the arrests followed a report of a suspected stolen motorcycle being ridden by a male without a helmet in the Whiterock Road area.
Suspected stolen motorcycle spotted on Whiterock Road
The incident began at approximately 10.30pm on Wednesday when police received a report of a motorcycle being ridden without the rider wearing a helmet.
Officers attended the area and observed a number of males pushing a motorcycle along an alleyway near Bleach Green Terrace.
Police arrested two people after they attempted to flee on foot.
The motorcycle, which officers believe may have been stolen, was recovered as part of the investigation.
West Belfast arrests followed by bail release
In an update issued on Thursday evening, the Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed that both arrested individuals had been released on bail.
A PSNI spokesperson said the two, aged 17 and 20, had been arrested on suspicion of offences including vehicle theft, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.
Both have since been released to allow further police enquiries to take place.
No charges have been announced in connection with the incident.
Police appeal for information
Police have described the arrests and recovery of the motorcycle as part of their ongoing efforts to tackle antisocial behaviour and criminal activity in west Belfast.
Inspector Sorcha Irwin said officers would continue taking action against those suspected of involvement in such incidents.
Enquiries remain ongoing, and police are appealing for anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the Whiterock Road or Bleach Green Terrace areas on Wednesday evening to come forward.
Anyone with relevant information, including dashcam or other video footage, can contact police on 101, quoting reference 1685 of 21 October 2026.
Information can also be submitted through the PSNI’s online witness appeal service.
External link: PSNI online witness appeals
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