Operation Crush | Illegal battery bikes and scooters crushed in anti-social behaviour clampdown

Hampshire and Isle of Wight police are taking a no nonsense approach to the illegal use of e-scooters and e-motorbikes, promising to crush machines used to commit crimes in the area.

• Related: Dorset Police look to reunite stolen bikes with rightful owners

Part of the aptly named ‘Operation Crush’, the movement is hoped to reduce the number of illegal electric two wheelers currently being used to commit further crimes, as well as those being ridden antisocially, and those being used on roads without permission.

“Given the difficulties there can be stopping these vehicles and identifying the riders, we have noticed them becoming really popular with those committing a variety of different crimes, including those involved in drugs gangs,” Inspector Andy Tester said.

“While we will always try and engage with people first and educate them about the laws around these vehicles, unfortunately not everyone is willing to listen to us and refuse to heed our warnings.”

The police force state they have seen an increase in vehicles like this being used in public places, despite not being legally allowed to do so. They further add that this has led to more of them being used in crime, as well as being ridden in a dangerous manner.

To combat this, they are now making further use of existing legislation – giving them the power to destroy any e-scooter or e-motorcycle that is being used in crime.

“We realised we needed to deploy tougher tactics for those persistent offenders and looked at how we can use existing legislation to offer more of a deterrence,” Inspector Tester continued.

“This means that whenever our officers deal with a crime involving e-scooters and other P2WVs (powered two-wheel vehicles), they will have another option to consider and where proportionate, this could end up with a disposal notice being served and the vehicle being crushed.”

The officer continued: “We know that the crushing of these vehicles will disrupt criminal activity because they will need to spend more money to buy replacements. Some of the electric motorcycles used by criminals can cost several thousands of pounds, so this will have a significant impact on their operations.”