According to police data reported by SVT Västerbotten, one in every three bicycles stolen in Umeå is now an electric bicycle. Community police officer Angelika Westergård stated that 73 bicycle thefts have been reported in the city so far in 2026, with 26 of those being electric bicycles - a significant increase compared to the same period last year.
Westergård explained that electric bicycles are more attractive to thieves because 'there is more money to be made from them.' She noted that thefts typically increase starting in April, with a peak expected in May. The thefts occur throughout the city, with a particular concentration along a stretch from central Umeå up to the hospital area.
there is more money to be made from them
Police statistics show that in 2025, 566 regular bicycles and 101 electric bicycles were reported stolen in Umeå. For the first three months of 2026, 47 regular bicycles (36 fewer than last year) and 26 electric bicycles (7 more than last year) were reported stolen. Westergård indicated that many thefts are committed by repeat offenders who have made a business out of stealing bicycles, though she noted that theories about international gangs operating in the area are not supported by significant evidence.
thefts typically increase starting in April, with a peak expected in May
many thefts are committed by repeat offenders who have made a business out of stealing bicycles
theories about international gangs operating in the area are not supported by significant evidence