Anti-theft Bike Lock Campaign This year, there have been 217 cases of stolen bicycles in Miyakonojo.  This is 30 cases more than for the corresponding period last year.  Over half of these bicycles were stolen when left out unlocked.  In order to curb this recent rash of bicycle theft, the Miyakonojo Police Department has begun affixing U-locks to bicycles that are found left out unlocked at designated locations around the city (major shopping centers and train stations).  It is hoped this will help discourage theft and promote awareness about the importance of locking one’s bicycle.  If you find one of these locks on your bike, please call the number on the tag attached to it, and the police will be happy to come unlock your bicycle. In the picture, you can see the kind of U-shaped lock that the city has been affixing to unlocked bicycles. The number to call is 0986-24-0110. (Japanese only) Return to English main page.