Merseyside Police has reported a significant decrease in motorcycle thefts during this year’s Isle of Man TT, thanks to the expanded Operation Needle anti-theft campaign. The operation coincided with another major milestone — zero rider fatalities at the event for the second consecutive year.
Between May 26 and June 7, more than 6,000 motorcyclists traveled through Liverpool en route to the TT races, with many staying overnight before boarding the Steam Packet ferry. Despite the influx of bikes, only two thefts were recorded — both in Anfield — compared to 11 incidents during the 2024 event.
Operation Needle was extended into Anfield and Kirkdale for 2025, in coordination with local councils, hotels, port authorities, and the Isle of Man Constabulary, aiming to safeguard visiting riders and their motorcycles.
Support from the National Vehicle Crime Reduction Partnership (NVCRP), MAG Foundation, and BMF funded enhanced security, including CCTV-monitored pods and heavy-duty chains loaned to hotels.
Alongside the drop in thefts, Merseyside Police also recovered a stolen vehicle, seized a fleeing scooter, and arrested a drink-driver near the ferry terminal.
This year’s success underscores the importance of multi-agency collaboration in protecting both visitors and local communities during major motorcycle events.
