In a scene that could have been lifted straight from a slapstick comedy, CCTV footage has revealed the moment two 'bumbling bandits' made a botched attempt to steal motorcycles in the rain.

They failed in a manner that was as embarrassing as it was fortunate for the vehicle owner.

However, this incident, which might bring a chuckle or a sigh of relief, is part of a larger, more concerning trend.


The motorcycle owner, an Australian who already had their ‘dirt bikes stolen from [their] driveway a few months ago,’ shared the footage on social media.

They recounted how on May 12, ‘two geniuses rocked up and attempted to steal the other two road bikes’.

‘Unfortunately for them, neither of them know how to use a motorcycle and they stacked it attempting to perform a U-turn on the steep, wet slippery driveway, which alerted us to what was going on,’ the poster wrote.

‘Although both bikes have been left significantly damaged, please have a laugh at their expense.’


The footage was almost comical in its display of ineptitude. Two hooded figures, faces obscured, were seen trying to make off with the motorcycles.

One thief's attempt to reverse a bike ends with both him and the vehicle on the ground.

Undeterred, they moved to the second bike, but their efforts were equally futile, resulting in another awkward tumble.

The presence of the owner sends them fleeing on foot, leaving behind the damaged bikes and their dignity.


While we can find some humour in the incompetence of these particular criminals, the broader picture painted by recent statistics is no laughing matter.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), around 55,000 cars have been reported stolen from homes in the past year alone.

This marked a significant increase in vehicle thefts, a trend that has been on the rise since 2020, reversing the long-term decline that had been observed since 2001.

William Milne, Head of Crime and Justice Statistics at the ABS, noted that a staggering 59 per cent of people reported the theft occurring at their own home or someone else's.

Moreover, ‘Eighty-six per cent of households reported their motor vehicle theft to police, which was the highest police reporting rate of all crime types collected in the survey,’ he said.

This high reporting rate underscores the severity of the issue and the importance of vigilance among vehicle owners.

The increase in vehicle thefts has also been accompanied by a rise in the number of young people involved in home break-ins and motor vehicle theft, adding another layer of concern for communities and law enforcement agencies.


As CCTV footage captured the daring antics of bumbling bandits in a brazen vehicle theft, Australians were reminded of the rising trend of criminal activity across the country.

With vehicle thefts soaring, communities are on high alert, seeking ways to safeguard their possessions.

However, not all thieves are targeting cars and valuables. In a separate incident captured on tape, a mysterious thief was caught stealing a commonly bought drink, adding a bizarre twist to the ongoing crime spree.
Have you taken measures to protect your vehicle, or perhaps you've experienced a theft yourself? Share your stories and tips in the comments below.