Police are using drones to target illegal e-scooters and e-bikes in Dorset
Dorset Police seized 217 e-bikes and e-scooters last year compared to just 38 in 2024 and now a wider crackdown is being considered
Police drones could become a more common sight across Dorset after a trial aimed at tackling the illegal use of e-scooters and e-bikes was hailed as a success.
The initiative, discussed at the county’s police and crime panel, comes amid growing concern from councillors and residents about dangerous riding, anti-social behaviour and criminal activity linked to illegally used electric bikes and scooters.
Kinson Cllr Cameron Adams told the panel complaints about the vehicles had become a regular feature of councillors’ inboxes.
“There are balaclava-clad young men carrying out their business activities on them,” he said.
Panel chairman Alastair Keddie said a police drone had been deployed during an operation in Kinson as part of efforts to monitor and disrupt illegal riding.
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said the trial, carried out almost a year ago in Poole and north Bournemouth, had proved effective.
He said: “The force aims to tackle an increase in reported incidents by disrupting this activity, seizing illegal vehicles and arresting offenders and increasing patrols in these hotspot areas.”
The panel also discussed whether forensic spray technology, which can mark vehicles and riders with traceable material, should be introduced more widely across Dorset.
Mr Keddie said the technique remained under consideration but noted concerns about the potential risk of injury to officers and riders if it encouraged high-speed pursuits.
PCC Sidwick revealed police activity against illegally used electric vehicles had increased significantly over the past year.
He said officers seized 10 e-bikes in 2024, rising to 99 the following year. During the same period, the number of confiscated e-scooters increased from 28 to 128.
“There is now a greater focus on e-scooters and e-bikes - especially for more vulnerable people,” Sidwick said.
In fact, a woman in Bournemouth recently required stitches after an encounter with an illegal rider.
He said he would continue backing efforts by Dorset Police to confiscate more illegally used machines, with seized vehicles being sent for destruction where appropriate.
Dorset Police urges residents to report locations where illegal e-scooters and e-bikes are causing problems, saying community intelligence would help police target enforcement in the areas of greatest concern.