Carmarthenshire police operation targets illegal use of electric vehicles
TEN e-bikes and e-scooters were seized and dozens of traffic offences detected during a police crackdown aimed at tackling the illegal and unsafe use of electrically powered vehicles.
Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police’s Roads Policing Team joined Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Teams in Carmarthenshire as part of a National Day of Action on June 6.
The operation focused on improving road and pavement safety, addressing concerns over anti-social riding, and educating the public about the laws surrounding e-scooters and e-bikes.
Police carried out proactive patrols in areas where concerns had been raised about the use of electrically powered bikes and scooters, while also engaging with local communities to raise awareness.
The force said the day of action highlighted ongoing concerns about safety risks associated with some e-scooters and e-bikes, particularly those that have been modified to exceed legal speed limits or are being used in locations where they are not permitted.
Officers also sought to address confusion surrounding the legality of privately owned e-scooters, which are generally prohibited from use on public roads, pavements and cycle paths.
Multiple offences detected
As a result of the operation, officers:
- Issued 22 traffic offence reports
- Seized 10 e-bikes and e-scooters under Section 165A of the Road Traffic Act
- Conducted five stop searches
- Dealt with two cloned vehicles
- Arrested two motorists on suspicion of drug-driving offences
- Issued two Adult Community Resolutions for driving offences
Sergeant Ashley Crocker of the Roads Policing Team said the operation was designed to educate as well as enforce.
“This day of action was not only about enforcement but also education,” he said.
“We continue to encounter a significant level of misunderstanding regarding the laws governing e-scooters and e-bikes.
“While these vehicles can offer a convenient form of transport, they must be used responsibly and within the law. Our priority is keeping all road users safe and preventing serious injury.”
Concerns raised by communities
Sgt Crocker said police regularly receive reports from residents concerned about anti-social riding and the use of e-scooters and e-bikes on pavements.
“We know that concerns about e-scooters and e-bikes are regularly raised by our communities, particularly around anti-social riding and pavement use,” he said.
“By working together on this day of action, we have been able to address those concerns while also helping people better understand the legislation.”
Police are reminding the public that privately owned e-scooters cannot normally be ridden on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes. Those who do so may be committing offences including driving without insurance or driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.
The force also warned that e-bikes must comply with legal requirements relating to motor power and speed restrictions if they are to be treated as bicycles under the law.
Anyone concerned about the use of e-scooters or e-bikes in their community is encouraged to report incidents to police.
