At least 99 e-scooters have been seized including 39 in a single day as police intensify a crackdown on banned e-scooters.
The operation uncovered several illegally modified bikes including one that did not have any brakes installed. Another bike was rigged to go as fast as 50mph.
E-scooters have been banned in Derby for a while. But the police initially adopted a soft stance.
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Cops often chose to educate riders rather than seize the bikes. Derbyshire Constabulary has said this was because of confusion around the Council’s bike scheme, which has now ended.
But after a spike in anti-social behaviour and crimes where e-scooters were involved, the force has acted. Derbyshire Constabulary launched an intensive operation targeting the illegal use of e-scooters and e-bikes a few weeks ago.
This culminated in a day-long effort in Derby, which resulted in the confiscation of 39 vehicles.
Operation Details: A focused crackdown in Derby
On Friday, 29 November, officers from Derby’s Safer Neighbourhood Team and the Roads Policing Unit teamed up with Derby City Council CCTV operators and Derbion Centre staff for an enforcement operation in the city.
The action saw officers intercept riders and seize vehicles that failed to meet legal standards or threatened public safety.
Among the seized vehicles was an e-bike illegally fitted with a motor capable of reaching speeds of 50mph.
The bike lacked brakes, amplifying the risks to both riders and pedestrians. The confiscated vehicles underwent inspections by the Vehicle Inspection Unit to ensure compliance with road safety laws.
The operation also led to two arrests on unrelated immigration offences, showcasing the breadth of enforcement undertaken during the day.
“Seize-on-sight” policy takes hold as banned e-scooters targeted
Derbyshire Constabulary has adopted a strict “seize first” approach, eliminating the previous protocol of issuing initial warnings. This proactive measure ensures that illegal riders face immediate consequences, underscoring the police force’s commitment to public safety.
Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) now also have the authority to seize illegal e-scooters, further strengthening the reach of the new policy.
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Speaking about the operation, Sergeant Jamie Millard explained:
“We know e-bikes and e-scooters are a real concern for local people, who report having to jump out of the way of riders going along pavements at high speed.
E-scooters can only be used on private land, and e-bikes have to meet certain requirements. Some of the vehicles we seized were a danger to both the rider and those around them, as they were rigged to go at high speeds which also carries a fire risk too.”
The sergeant emphasised that the results of the operation serve both as a warning to offenders and as reassurance to Derby residents about police efforts to address these issues.
E-bike and e-scooter crimes linked to fatalities
The proliferation of e-scooters and e-bikes has brought not only convenience but also increased risks. Across Derbyshire, several incidents involving illegal or modified vehicles have resulted in severe injuries and fatalities.
High-speed e-scooters and e-bikes pose dangers on shared pathways and roads, contributing to collisions and endangering pedestrians.
A growing body of evidence links e-bike and e-scooter crimes to broader safety concerns, including the use of these vehicles in illegal activities such as drug transport.
The lack of regulation and the ease of modifying these vehicles exacerbate the risks.
E-scooters and e-bike crimes in Derby: A rising concern
Derby residents have expressed frustration over reckless riders flouting laws by speeding on pavements and through pedestrian-heavy areas. Illegal modifications, such as high-powered motors, increase the likelihood of accidents, while poor maintenance can lead to vehicle fires.
Additionally, the use of e-scooters in crimes such as snatch thefts has raised alarm. These vehicles allow criminals to make quick getaways, complicating law enforcement’s efforts to trace and apprehend offenders.
Public education and prevention efforts
As part of their campaign, Derbyshire Police are urging residents to stay informed about the laws governing e-scooters and e-bikes. Public awareness campaigns are being run to educate potential buyers about legal requirements and the risks associated with non-compliant vehicles.
The new enforcement strategy aligns with the police’s broader mission to ensure safety in the community. Efforts will continue across the county, with police encouraging residents to report illegal use or suspicious activity involving e-scooters or e-bikes.
Looking ahead
This decisive action represents a significant step forward in addressing public concerns over e-scooter and e-bike safety. By maintaining a strong focus on enforcement, education, and collaboration with community stakeholders, Derbyshire Constabulary is paving the way for safer streets.
The operation serves as a reminder to the public that e-scooters can only be used legally on private land, while e-bikes must adhere to strict safety standards. The police’s vigilance, combined with community cooperation, is expected to curb the risks associated with illegal e-scooter and e-bike use.
