Sussex Police are looking into a spate of bike thefts over the past three months, with a suspect identified.
The force said: “Police have launched an investigation into bicycle thefts in Mid Sussex.
“Over the last three months, there have been a total of 26 recorded bicycle thefts across the region, with 16 of the 26 in Burgess Hill.
“A suspect has been identified in the investigation and efforts are ongoing to trace him.”
Superintendent Imran Asghar said: “We understand the distress and inconvenience caused to victims of bike theft and the impact on the wider community.
“We are in direct contact with victims who have been affected.
“We take all reports seriously and will investigate any reasonable lines of inquiry.
“Our officers will be increasing patrols in areas linked to the incidents and we are working with colleagues around the force to bring offenders to justice.
“As soon as we noticed a trend of thefts, an investigation was swiftly launched with our Neighbourhood Policing Team.
“If anyone would like to report any information or speak with officers, please contact police online or call 101, quoting Operation Jarrow.”