A teenager found in possession of a screwdriver has been charged in connection with a spate of bike thefts across Medway.

Police patrols stopped a 17-year-old boy riding a reported stolen motorbike along pavements near Aylesford Crescent, Gillingham.

The incident happened shortly after midday on Wednesday and the suspect is reported to have attempted to leave the area on foot.

He was detained following a short foot chase and officers also recovered a screwdriver.

The boy was later charged with counts of theft of a motor vehicle, taking a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent, going equipped to steal and driving without a licence.

He has been bailed to appear before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Friday May 20.

Since January 1 there have been more than 100 motorbikes and mopeds reported stolen across Medway, of which around 50 have been recovered.

Officers have now arrested a total of 19 suspects, aged between 14 and 21. All have been bailed pending further investigation.