Bike was locked up with a large U-Lock. When I returned after a few hours, the lock was cut through at the base, the locking mechanism. Looking around the scene, I found part of another bike lock, so I assume this was not the first time a bike was stolen form this location. The break appeared to be from some sort of saw/machine, rather than bolt cutters
Protect your bike – get a security protection label!
Apply the protection label to your bicycle and instantly reduce the risk of theft by up to 50%! Moreover, if the bike is stolen, you increase the chance of its safe recovery by up to 70%.