Police seize record 2,500 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters in London this year
New technology aids in reducing crime linked to modified two-wheelers
The Metropolitan Police have seized over 2,500 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters within the first seven months of this year, surpassing last year's total, which was over 2,200.
This record-breaking achievement underscores the effectiveness of the Met’s ongoing efforts against the illegal modification and dangerous use of two-wheelers, significantly contributing to road safety and reduced crime across London.
The Met is pioneering the use of technology such as ‘rolling roads,’ which allows officers to check the speed of suspected modified bikes roadside, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
Commander Neerav Patel, who leads the crackdown, emphasised the sustained effort against illegal bikes used for dangerous driving and crimes like phone snatching and drug dealing.
Utilising intelligence-led approaches to target hotspot areas has led to the clearance and destruction of thousands of illegal bikes.
Phone theft in the West End, largely committed using these bikes, has seen nearly a 50% reduction.
The Met's persistent efforts are reflected in newly released figures, showing a 14% drop in neighbourhood offences – translating to 35,000 fewer crimes compared to the previous twelve months.
This includes a 23% decrease in theft from persons and an 11% reduction in personal robbery.
Westminster has experienced a significant 36% fall in neighbourhood crime, equating to nearly 14,000 fewer offenses.
In March, a two-day operation in the West End and Harlesden resulted in the seizure of 52 e-bikes and mopeds and the arrest of a man carrying a combat knife.
June saw the Met launch a ten-day initiative focussed on phone theft, leading to hundreds of arrests and contributing to a substantial reduction in phone theft offenses across London.
The focus on tackling crime facilitated by two-wheelers remains strong, with plans to expand the Met's fleet of high-powered e-bikes to enhance pursuit capabilities.