Three teenage boys have been arrested in connection with a string of motorcycle thefts in Dartford.

Police executed early morning search warrants at six homes at the same time around the Tree Estate yesterday.

A 16-year-old from Swanscombe was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, taking a motor vehicle without the owner's consent, and handling stolen goods.

He appeared at Medway Magistrates' Court today and was remanded in custody until 17 March.

Two other youngsters, aged 16 and 15 both from Dartford who cannot be named for legal reasons, were released on bail pending further enquiries.

Police are searching for another teenage boy believed to be involved with the crimes.

The arrests have been welcomed by residents. Julia Stevenson, a keen motorcyclist from Dartford, has been working with the community to try and put and end to the thefts.

Julia, who is friends with one of the victims, said: "I encouraged people to email the police to complain about these scumbags. Now arrests are being made at last.

"Enough is enough and the courts must give harsher sentences or send them to boot camp for a year." - Julia Stevenson

"Enough is enough and the courts must give harsher sentences or send them to boot camp for a year.

"The bike that was taken last Saturday was a week old. The girl was devastated as she had worked hard to pay for it. It was totally trashed by these scumbags."

The arrests were part of an ongoing operation to target motorcycle and vehicle crime in the district following 45 reports of motorcycle thefts in Dartford since 1 February.

Further activity is planned in the coming days.

Police sergeant Sarah Tyler, who coordinated the operation, said: "We recognise that these crimes are causing real distress to the residents of Dartford and I would like to reassure them that we are taking their concerns seriously.

"While these matters are at an early stage, I would encourage motorcycle owners to follow basic crime prevention advice, such as parking in a garage or a busy, well-lit area, using a motorcycle cover and using a good quality anchor, padlock or chain."