Wiltshire Police are to target illegal electric bikes and scooters in a major crackdown.
On Friday (27 June), the force launched Operation Jetsom, a two-phase initiative aimed at tackling the illegal use of e-scooters and modified, high-powered e-bikes across the county.
For the next five weeks, officers will focus on education and raising awareness about the law. This will include stopping riders, visiting schools before the end of term, and sharing information on social media.
Anyone stopped who is also involved in another offence, such as speeding, anti-social behaviour or violence, will still face having their vehicle seized on the spot.
From Thursday (1 August), police will take a tougher stance on the crime – and anyone caught riding an illegal e-scooter or e-bike can expect to have it seized and destroyed.
The operation comes after numerous public complaints about these vehicles being used dangerously and linked to criminal activity.
The speedy illegal vehicles have been used by drug dealers to carry out deals. The offenders can cover ground at speed, often successfully fleeing the police.
The county has also seen an increase in their unlawful use by delivery drivers – who are taking food orders to customers for Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber.
‘I nearly get run over by one everyday on the footpaths in North Swindon’, one local resident said in a post on Facebook.
Another added: ‘There are plenty of illegal scooters and bikes in Melksham… we were overtaken by a delivery bike doing 40mph’.
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Saunders said: “We are aware of the considerable public concern around high-powered e-bikes and e-scooters, which are often ridden dangerously on our roads and pavements.
“We’re also aware of the link between e-bikes, which have often been illegally modified and can reach speeds of more than 40mph, and youth violence across the country.
“It is something we have seen in Swindon and the wider county, where they are used to commit serious crimes while also putting the riders of these vehicles and other road users at risk of serious injury. We are determined to clear our streets of them to protect the public.
“Both modes of transport are illegal for a reason. They put pedestrians going about their daily business in danger, particularly when ridden through busy areas at high speeds.
“We know there are many people who use their e-scooters for innocent reasons, such as travelling to work or visiting friends.
“The law is very clear, however, that unless you are in a trial scheme area on an official rented e-scooter, they are illegal to ride in public.
“There are no such trial schemes anywhere in Wiltshire.
“We also know there is also confusion about the laws around e-bikes and e-scooters, which is why we are running an awareness phase first to educate both riders and buyers of the vehicles, such as parents, of the law surrounding them.
“From August 1, if you’re seen on one by officers, expect to be stopped and have it seized – and as they are uninsurable, you won’t be able to get it back.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “We’re seeing a growing number of incidents where e-bikes and e-scooters are being used irresponsibly or even for criminal activity, and that cannot be ignored.
“My office recently ran the Spot the Signs Stop the Crime campaign in partnership with Wiltshire Police, which educated young people and their parents on the red flags around potential child exploitation – and unfortunately, use of these illegal vehicles are often related to county lines and criminal gang activity.
“This targeted response is about sending a clear message: if you’re using these vehicles illegally or dangerously, you will be stopped, your vehicle may be seized, and you could face prosecution.
“At the same time, we recognise that many people simply aren’t aware of the laws around e-bikes and e-scooters. That’s why education is a key part of our approach – helping people understand the legal requirements and the potential risks involved.
“Our priority is public safety and whilst we want to support the responsible use of these vehicles, we won’t tolerate behaviour that puts others at risk or contributes towards crime on our streets.”
What is the law?
E-scooters:
E-scooters are classed as ‘powered transporters’ and must meet the same legal requirements as motor vehicles. This means they need a licence, MOT, tax and insurance to be used legally. As they do not meet the necessary safety criteria to be insured, they are illegal to use on roads, pavements and public areas like parks. E-scooter rental schemes are allowed in some parts of the country, but there are no such trial schemes in Wiltshire.
E-bikes:
Legal e-bikes are known as electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs). Riders must be aged over 14. The bike must have pedals that must be used to propel it, the motor must not exceed 250 watts and must not provide electric assistance beyond 15.5mph. If an e-bike does not meet these criteria, it is classed as a motor vehicle and requires a licence, MOT, tax and insurance.
