Approximately 50 Bird Canada electric scooters have been reported stolen in Windsor, Ontario, in recent weeks, as confirmed by the micromobility company’s general manager, Patrick Graham. The thefts primarily target the lithium-ion batteries within the scooters, which are then sold on the black market. Graham expressed gratitude for the police collaboration in addressing the issue.
Although the thefts are significant given the company’s fleet of around 400 scooters in Windsor, Graham mentioned that the ongoing incidents have not severely impacted their service capability in the city. To compensate for the stolen scooters, Bird has relocated units from other locations.
Following a temporary suspension due to contractual reasons, Bird reintroduced scooters and e-bikes to Windsor streets earlier this summer. The company’s operations span over 20 Canadian cities, with Windsor experiencing higher theft rates compared to other locations, according to Graham. While thefts have occurred sporadically over the company’s five-year presence in Windsor, the recent surge is notable.
Graham speculated that organized crime groups might be behind the thefts, dismantling the scooters swiftly for parts resale. Despite the challenges, he affirmed Bird’s commitment to serving the city. Windsor police have requested public assistance in investigating the thefts, with some scooters already recovered in compromised conditions.
Local businesses specializing in mobility devices, including those with lithium-ion batteries, were contacted for insights on similar thefts. However, no connections to the stolen scooters were reported within these establishments. Jessica Senay, general manager at Comfort Mobility and Home Health Care, advised customers to secure and insure valuable products to prevent theft incidents.