More than a dozen illegal e-bikes and scooters were seized by police in Birmingham city centre, with one of the vehicles clocking nearly 50 miles per hour. Officers intercepted riders and tested their bikes for illegal modifications before removing the upgraded machines during an operation on Friday, April 24.
Operation Details
West Midlands Police reported that 13 bikes were seized and several tickets were issued to riders caught driving in pedestrianised areas. One of the confiscated bikes had been modified to reach speeds of almost 50mph, with the speedometer showing 78.2 km/h (48.6 mph). Police emphasised the inherent danger of such vehicles, reaffirming their commitment to a tough stance against these machines.
Dedicated Task Force
A dedicated operation, involving city centre officers working in partnership with the local authority and Central Business Improvement District, was launched last year. This collaboration has led to significant reductions in the number of illegal bikes operating in the city, according to police.
Birmingham city centre Sergeant Matthew King stated: “We’re making real progress in tackling this issue – which we know has caused significant concerns for residents, visitors, and businesses. These illegally modified vehicles can’t be ridden anywhere in public and will now be crushed. Our message remains clear: We will take action against those who put people at risk in the city centre, which we are turning into a no-go zone for illegal e-bikes.”
Sergeant King added: “Our work is supported by the Sight Loss Councils, who tell us that blind and partially sighted people now feel more comfortable coming into the city centre.”
