POLICE SEIZE UPGRADED E-BIKE AND PROSECUTE RIDER
As part of the clampdown on illegal e-bike riding in the community the the local Safe Neighbourhood Team (SNT ) has seized an e-bike and prosecuted the rider for no insurance, it emerged today..
According the police the e-bike had been ‘upgraded’ and was capable of speeds of up to 40mph making it a motorcycle rather than a bike and requiring proper insurance and motorbike licence.
Last week the Met police announced it was adding another 25 e-bikes to its existing fleet to specifically tackle the growing issue of e-bike related crime which can involve phone-snatching in busy, urban areas as well supporting quick getaways after shoplifting. They can also escape through narrow lanes and get up and down stairs.
The police said: “We wanted to share a quick update about dangerous driving in your area. Please be assured we’re working to keep everyone safe.
“Help us tackle illegal e-bike riding in our community. Today your safer neighbourhood team seized an e-bike and prosecuted the rider for no insurance. The e-bike was capable of speeds in excess of 40kph therefore making it a motorcycle requiring the rider to have appropriate insurance and a motorbike licence.
“We’re responding to concerns about dangerous riding in our neighbourhood.
“If you’ve seen riders using illegally modified e-bikes or personal electric vehicles (stand up scooters) in a dangerous or antisocial manner, your information can help us identify patterns and direct patrols more effectively.
The police asked the public to provide deatils about:
• Where it happened
• What time you saw it
• A description of the bike and rider
• Any CCTV or dashcam footage you may have
They added: “Please don’t confront riders yourself. If there’s an immediate risk to life or crime in progress, call 999. For non-emergency reports, use 101 or report online. Every report helps build the bigger picture. Thank you for helping us keep our community safe.”
“If someone is driving a motor vehicle, they should always be doing so in a safe and considerate manner. Even momentary lapses in judgement can have life changing or devastating consequences for those in the vehicle or innocent bystanders.
“Activities such as street racing, cruising or performing tricks can count as anti-social behaviour. If you are concerned about this in your area, visit our website for the latest guidance.
You can report dangerous driving online here.