A North Yorkshire man was arrested after a series of robberies when meeting sellers from Facebook Marketplace.

Three people arranged to sell their electric off-road bikes via Facebook Marketplace and the buyer arranged the meeting points within the county in areas unfamiliar to them.

The buyer asked to have test rides of the bikes and rode off on them without paying. On one occasion, the seller was threatened with a knife before handing over the bike as they were scared for their safety. 

The incidents happened on Friday, October 18 in Stokesley, and Saturday, October 26 and Friday, November 1 in Thornton le Moor, between Thirsk and Northallerton.

(Image: North Yorkshire Police) (Image: North Yorkshire Police)Two bikes still need to be reunited with their rightful owners. One is a white Yamaha YZ85 with a purple seat and the other is a Talaria Sting R electric motorcycle in black with blue stickers. There is a plate on the side saying 202406.

An 18-year-old man from North Yorkshire has been arrested regarding these incidents and one motorbike has been recovered. He was subsequently bailed whilst police investigate.

Following the incidents, a North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “We are thoroughly investigating these incidents and have made an arrest. But we’d urge you to take care when selling items via social media platforms.

“Only send money through trusted platforms and arrange the exchange in well-lit areas that you are familiar with.” 

We’re appealing for any witnesses, any other potential victims or if the bikes’ whereabouts are known.

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Please email quita.readman@northyorkshire.police.uk if you have any information that could help the investigation.

Alternatively, you can call North Yorkshire Police on 101, and ask for Quita Readman, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

Please quote reference 12240195873 when passing on information.