White flags flown above Brooklyn Bridge

Daring vandals have swiped the US flags atop the Brooklyn Bridge and replaced them with white banners.

The abduction of the stars and stripes has baffled local authorities, as the bridge is guarded at both ends by police cars and watched by security cameras.

Social media was abuzz with baffled users sharing their own images of the sight.

A group called the Bicycle Lobby claimed responsibility for the act on Twitter, saying the change signified its "complete surrender" of the Brooklyn Bridge bicycle path to pedestrians.

However, local authorities are not happy with the perpetrators.

Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams said to local media the public safety of the city was of "paramount importance".

The white flags have already been removed and new American flags have retaken their proud position on the bridge.

New York police are investigating the incident.