Police seize illegal e-bikes and e-scooters from Torquay's streets
Police have seized 6 e-bikes and 2 e-scooters in Torquay during an operation led by the Torquay Neighborhood team and Neighborhood Support team, supported by the Drone unit.
Police have been cracking down on the illegal and dangerous use of e-bikes and e-scooters in Torquay.
An operation was led by the Torquay Neighborhood team and the Neighborhood Support team, supported by the Drone unit.
As a result, police seized 6 e-bikes and 2 e-scooters in Torquay.
The e-bikes were seized after they were found to have illegal modifications which enabled them to reach speeds over the legal limit.
The privately-owned e-scooters were seized for being used in a public space, which is illegal.
Police used drones to identify people using e-bikes and e-scooters which led to officers on the ground approaching riders to carry out safety checks and give advice on using them safely and legally.
Police Sergeant Matt Gill, who supported the activity, said: “Our officers remain committed to keeping all riders, road users and other members of the public safe, and targeted action like this is key in doing so.”
“E-bikes are heavy pieces of equipment and, when illegally modified to exceed the legal speed limit and ridden carelessly, they can pose a significant danger to other road users, pedestrians and the rider themselves.
He added: “We take no pleasure in seizing these from people, but when they have the potential to cause serious and in some cases life-changing injuries, it is important that we take action.”
Police have also urged the public to familiarise themselves with the law when considering buying or gifting e-scooters and e-bikes over the festive season.
Privately owned e-scooters can only be used on private land with the landowner's permission.
It is illegal to ride them on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, beach promenades, bridleways or other publicly accessible spaces, including parks and car parks.
Those aged 14 or over can ride e-bikes without a licence or insurance providing that the bike meets certain requirements.
These include having pedals that can propel the bike, a motor with a continuous rated power output of no more than 250 watts and electrical assistance that cuts out once the bike reaches 15.5mph.
Those who see someone using an e-scooter on public land or using an e-bike illegally should report it on the Devon & Cornwall Police website or by calling 101.
If they are causing immediate danger, call 999.
Information can also be shared anonymously to Crimestoppers.