Police seize 23 scramblers, e-bikes and e-scooters in crackdown as drugs and drink-driving offences uncovered

Police have seized 23 scramblers, e-bikes and e-scooters during a two-day operation targeting illegal and anti-social riding in the Lurgan and Craigavon areas, with officers also uncovering suspected drug offences, drink-driving and a stolen e-bike.

The enforcement operation, carried out on Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, followed ongoing complaints from local residents about the dangerous and anti-social use of two-wheel vehicles.

In total, police seized 23 vehicles, arrested three people and cautioned two others for motoring offences. Several young people were also dealt with through the youth justice system.

Drugs discovery follows vehicle stop

One of the most significant developments came after officers stopped an electric motorcycle in the Kilwilkie area of Lurgan on Saturday evening.

The 25-year-old rider was arrested on suspicion of a number of motoring offences. A subsequent search of his property led officers to discover more than half a kilogram of cannabis.

He was further arrested on suspicion of possessing a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply and has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.

Drink-driving charge and stolen e-bike investigation

During patrols on Friday, police also responded after a member of the public raised concerns about a driver in the Church Place area.

A 58-year-old man was later charged with driving with excess alcohol in breath and is due to appear before Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 26. As with all criminal charges, the case will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

In a separate incident, officers stopped a 17-year-old boy riding an e-bike on the wrong side of the road.

Police said he attempted to make off but was arrested on suspicion of driving offences and possession of a Class B controlled drug. Officers later established that the e-bike had been stolen.

Following questioning, the teenager was released on bail pending further enquiries.

Young riders referred to Youth Diversion Officer

Sergeant Adam Patterson said two adults were arrested and two people cautioned during the operation for motoring offences.

He added that, aside from one young person who was arrested, the remaining young riders were spoken to in the presence of their parents or guardians and referred to a Youth Diversion Officer. Where appropriate, educational justice outcomes will be sought.

The operation involved neighbourhood officers, plain-clothes police, the District Support Team and the Air Support Unit, which deployed a drone to assist officers on the ground.

Police warn illegal vehicles face destruction

Sergeant Patterson said the number of vehicles seized highlighted the scale of the issue.

“Twenty three nuisance vehicles are now off the road – and, as these uninsured vehicles are not road legal, they will be disposed of by police within 14 days of seizure unless the owner requests a review by the magistrates court, at the owner’s expense.”

He also reminded riders that under current legislation, many e-scooters and some high-powered e-bikes are legally classed as motor vehicles.

“Under current legislation, e-scooters and e-bikes are deemed to be motor vehicles, meaning the rider must have a driving licence and the vehicle must be taxed, insured and fitted with lights and a number plate.

“From a safety point of view, their inappropriate use in public spaces poses a risk to the safety of both rider and the public. People have already been seriously hurt as a result of their use.

“The number of vehicles seized demonstrates the scale of this problem. As we do all we can to detect offenders, we’d ask that our local community continues to report the illegal and dangerous driving of these vehicles so we can help to make our roads safer for everyone.”

How to report concerns

Anyone wishing to report the illegal or dangerous use of scramblers, e-bikes or e-scooters can contact police by calling 101 or reporting online via the PSNI reporting portal.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or submitting information online.

Police say owners of seized vehicles have 14 days to seek a review through the magistrates’ court before the vehicles may be disposed of.