Police seize illegal e-bike used for wheelies

Plain-clothes police officers have seized an illegal e-bike after the rider was spotted doing wheelies on Torquay pier.

The bike, which had been illegally modified to reach speeds of up to 35mph without pedalling, lacked insurance and will be destroyed due to its illegal modifications, the Devon and Cornwall force has said.

A privately owned e-scooter was also seized in a crackdown by police and it will be destroyed after being used illegally in a public area.

Two pedal bikes were also confiscated from riders using them irresponsibly on a crowded high street, said officers. The bikes were returned after advice was given to the riders' parents.

Five people received Section 35 dispersal orders for disruptive behavior, preventing them from returning to the area until the following day.

Insp Rob Harvey, who led the operation, said: "E-bikes aren't a problem, but when people choose to ride them in an unsafe manner that endangers members of the public, that's when our officers will take action.

"We're not here to ruin anybody's fun, but when their version of fun turns into behavior that can cause serious injury to pedestrians, that's when we'll use our powers to stop it from happening and deter future offences."

He added a message to e-bike and e-scooter users: "Whether in plain clothes or in uniform, our officers will be identifying individuals using these bikes and scooters unsafely.

"They'll be taking the bikes off you, issuing warnings, and where suitable, you will be dispersed from the town.

"In serious cases, your bike may also be destroyed. Please use e-bikes responsibly – keep yourself safe and others around you."

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