Police seize 'illegal' e-bikes and make arrests in Exeter crackdown

Six e-bikes have been seized and four people arrested following a police operation targeting antisocial behaviour and organised crime in Exeter.

Officers from the city's neighbourhood policing team carried out the proactive "multi-agency" operation on Thursday, 12 March.

The crackdown focused on bikes that had been illegally modified or were deemed not roadworthy, as well as identifying individuals at risk of exploitation by criminal gangs.

During the day of action, officers stopped riders to check the legality and speed capabilities of their vehicles.

Six bikes were recovered after they were found to have illegal modifications and were being used without insurance.

Sgt Andrew Walton, who led the operation, said while most e-bike users ride safely, some were "causing concerns for people living in or visiting the city."

"Roads in Exeter city centre can get very busy and we know that modified e-bikes often travel at excessive speeds which put pedestrians and other road users at risk," he added.

The neighbourhood team were supported by Immigration Enforcement and Modern Slavery Victim Liaison Officers.

Police confirmed that four people were arrested for suspected immigration-related offences. They have since been released on immigration bail.

Sgt Walton said there was a known link between e-bike use and "organised criminality" and warned residents they can expect to see a continued police presence in the city.