Three arrested and 23 vehicles seized in e-bike crackdown
By Claudia Savage, Press Association
Three people have been arrested and more than 20 vehicles seized in a police crackdown on illegal and antisocial use of e-bikes and scooters.
The PSNI in Lurgan carried out two days of targeted actions against e-scooters and scramblers over Friday, July 31st and Saturday, August 1st.
Over this period, a total of 23 vehicles were seized, two adults were arrested, and a further two were cautioned for motoring offences.
One child was arrested and referred to the Youth Diversion Officer.
People have already been seriously hurt as a result of their use
PSNI Sergeant Adam Patterson said: “A 17-year-old boy was stopped by police riding an e-bike on the wrong side of the road.
“He attempted to make off from police, but was arrested on suspicion of driving offences and possession of a class B controlled drug.
“It was later established that the e-bike had been stolen. Following questioning, the boy has been released on bail to allow for further inquiries.
“Local officers – in both uniform and plain clothes – were supported in the Two Wheel Vehicle Operation by colleagues from Air Support Unit, who deployed a drone in the area, and our District Support Team.”
Sergeant Patterson continued: “Twenty three nuisance vehicles are now off the road and, as these uninsured vehicles are not road legal, they will be disposed of by police within 14 days of seizure unless the owner requests a review by the magistrates’ court, at the owner’s expense.
“Under current legislation, e-scooters and e-bikes are deemed to be motor vehicles, meaning the rider must have a driving licence and the vehicle must be taxed, insured and fitted with lights and a number plate.
“From a safety point of view, their inappropriate use in public spaces poses a risk to the safety of both rider and the public.
“People have already been seriously hurt as a result of their use.
“The number of vehicles seized demonstrates the scale of this problem.
“As we do all we can to detect offenders, we’d ask that our local community continues to report the illegal and dangerous driving of these vehicles so we can help to make our roads safer for everyone.”
