Crackdown on Illegal E-Bikes, E-Scooters and Scramblers Launched Across Dorset
Operation targets rise in anti-social behaviour and organised crime in Poole and Bournemouth
Dorset Police has launched a dedicated operation to clamp down on the illegal use of electric bikes, scooters and scrambler-style vehicles, following a rise in related crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) across Poole and North Bournemouth.
The force says the operation is aimed at tackling the use of illegally modified vehicles, which have increasingly been linked to serious criminal activity including drug dealing, violent offences and theft.
Officers will be working to seize unlawful vehicles, arrest offenders, and step up patrols in areas most affected by ASB. Confiscated vehicles will be destroyed and recycled.
Since the start of 2025 up to early July, police have already seized 52 electric scooters and 33 electric bikes that were being used illegally.
The operation is backed by the Force’s innovation board, with new investment in SmartTag forensic spray to help link suspects to crimes. In addition, police will work with Bournemouth University to analyse incident data, helping to shape future enforcement strategy.
Inspector Nick Lee, of Poole Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:
“We know that the use of these illegally adapted electric vehicles is enabling other crimes such as serious violent crime, drug-dealing and acquisitive crime, and so we have launched this operation as a measure to crack down on criminality.
“Tackling ASB also remains a key priority for the Force and the large proportion of calls we have received demonstrates how concerned our communities are about the use of these vehicles in public.
“We therefore remain committed to responding to these reports and cracking down on the criminality and ASB associated with their use.
“Our response to this issue will also be shared with the College of Policing and contribute towards how this matter is addressed on a national scale.”
David Sidwick, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, also welcomed the initiative, saying:
“For some time, I have spoken about my concerns around the risks of e-scooters and illegally modified bikes, so I am pleased to see this tough approach from Dorset Police towards those causing fear and harm in our communities. I know the impact this type of anti-social behaviour can have so it is vital residents see the positive action being taken.
“I am absolutely clear; if you’re caught riding one of these vehicles illegally, it will be seized, crushed and recycled. Tackling anti-social behaviour is a key part of my Police and Crime Plan and I will continue to support the Force in robustly tackling this issue to ensure people can feel safe where they live and work.”
The force says it remains committed to protecting communities and ensuring public spaces remain safe from crime and nuisance behaviour.