Police Seize Dozens Illegal E-Bikes, Scooters Across California, Lancashire

Police in multiple regions have intensified crackdowns on illegal electric bikes and scooters due to safety concerns and their association with criminal activity. In Santa Monica, 12 electric bikes capable of exceeding 40 mph and lacking operable pedals were impounded for being classified as off-highway vehicles, not legal e-bikes under California law. Similarly, Lancashire police conducted operations seizing dozens of illegal e-bikes and e-scooters, many uninsured and used recklessly in town centers, with all seized vehicles to be crushed to prevent further misuse. These efforts form part of broader initiatives like Operation Centurion, targeting anti-social behavior and the illegal use of such vehicles. Police emphasized that these measures aim to protect public safety and disrupt criminal activities such as drug dealing, urging residents to report illegal bike use. The use of specialist police bikes equipped with lights and sirens has enabled enforcement in previously hard-to-access areas.