35 dangerously ridden electric scooters and bikes seized by police in Blackpool
“Some are being ridden at excessive speeds, on footpaths and in pedestrianised areas, putting members of the public at risk.”
A police crackdown on the illegal use of electric scooters and bikes in Blackpool saw 35 seized in just two days - including one bike being ridden at speeds of more than 60mph.
Blackpool Police ran a dedicated operation last Friday and Saturday involving both visible and plain clothes patrols.
Supported by Lancashire's Roads Policing Unit, officers targeted those who were seen illegally and dangerously riding electric scooters or bikes, with one e-bike seized reaching speeds of more than 60mph.
During the operation 16 electric scooters or bikes were seized on Friday followed by 19 on Saturday.
In addition to the seized vehicles, officers also:
•Arrested a 22-year-old man from Poulton-le-Fylde on suspicion of dangerous driving, failure to stop for police and driving while disqualified. He was taken to custody and has since been bailed whilst an investigation progresses.
•Gathered intelligence on possible locations of several high-powered e-vehicles.
•Located a stolen motorbike, with an investigation now underway.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant, Nikki Fuller, of Blackpool Police said: “The misuse of e-bikes and e-scooters remains a significant concern for many people in Blackpool, and we regularly receive reports from residents and visitors about the dangers they can pose when ridden irresponsibly.
“Some are being ridden at excessive speeds, on footpaths and in pedestrianised areas, putting members of the public at risk.
“Through this operation, we are demonstrating our commitment to tackling anti-social and dangerous riding, identifying those who are breaking the law, and taking action where necessary.
“We want Blackpool to remain a safe place to live, work and visit, and we will continue to work proactively to address the concerns raised by the public and improve safety on our streets.”
This operation was undertaken as part of Operation Centurion, the forces response to anti-social behaviour including anti-social driving, supported by Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw.
To report concerns of anti-social driving in your area, please call 101 or report online via the Lancashire Police website.
In an emergency, always call 999.