Electric bikes seized in day of police action

Police have seized two electric bikes being driven dangerously in Bradford as they try to tackle motorcycle related crime in the city.

The two bikes were intercepted by specialist police motorcyclists during a day of action over the weekend.

The action is part of West Yorkshire Police's efforts to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour involving motorcycles.

It follows a significant rise in the number of crimes involving electric bikes and scooters. A response to a Freedom of Information request in August 2024, showed they had increased from 48 in 2019/20 to 830 in 2023/2024 in West Yorkshire.

"We are determined to keep doing all we can to intercept those who use our roads to commit crimes," Ch Insp James Farrar said.

In February, the government announced that police would be given the power to seize vehicles "that cause havoc to communities", allowing them to deal with off-road bikes and dangerous e-bikes and scooters.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the new powers would "about taking back our streets and town centres, restoring respect for law and order, and giving the police and local communities the support and tools they need to tackle local crime".

West Yorkshire Police said the first bike to be seized on 6 July was spotted being driven dangerously in the city centre.

The rider tried to drive off but was detained and has been reported for a summons for driving offences.

The second seizure came in the Planetrees Road area of the city, when an electric motorcycle was spotted being driven at speed.

The rider failed to stop and was pursued by officers before falling from his bike.

He was not injured and was arrested on suspicion of theft and dangerous driving.

Ch Insp James Farrar said communities have "real concerns surrounding motorbike-related crime and anti-social behaviour".

"This operation is just one example of how we are tackling the issue through the use of our specially trained motorcyclists across West Yorkshire, pursuing and detaining offenders to protect the public."

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