Monday, July 28, 2025
24 illegal E-bikes, E-scooters, and illegally adapted cycles have been seized in Blackburn as part of a day of action to tackle anti-social behaviour and nuisance vehicles.
Last Friday, 25th July 2025, officers from Blackburn’s Neighbourhood Policing team and the Road Policing Unit, carried out an operation in Blackburn, one of our most reported areas of illegal bike nuisance.
The operation also benefited from the forces new specialist bikes which were unveiled on Tuesday 22nd July 2025. These on and off-road bikes, equipped with lights and sirens, enable trained officers to patrol areas previously difficult to access with standard vehicles.
The day of action was part of Operation Centurion, a county-wide initiative targeting anti-social behaviour including the illegal use of e-bikes, e-scooters, and general motorbike nuisance.
During the activity, 24 vehicles were seized by officers, mostly under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act for not having insurance or a license. All vehicles seized under Section 165 legislation will not be returned and will be crushed and no longer able to cause an issue for those living in the area.
Roads Policing Inspector, Dean Skelton said: “Through our Lancashire Talking survey, the public have told us that nuisance vehicles and the use illegal E-bikes and E-scooters is a real concern in the area.
“Not only are these E-bikes and E-scooters used illegally, often without the correct insurance or a license, but they are also being ridden in town centres and in a dangerous manner, which puts other road users and members of the public at risk. This is in addition to those bikes which have been adapted at home, which pose further safety risks.
“This operation is not about taking away someone's mode of transport, it is about keeping the rider and members of the public safe, as well as hindering those who use these bikes as a mode of transport for criminal activity such as drug dealing.
“I hope this shows the residents of Blackburn that we are listening to your concerns, we are taking action, and we will continue to do so.
“I would urge anyone with information about illegal bikes to report it to us. All the information that comes in helps create a clearer picture of the issue across Lancashire and put our resources where they are needed most.”
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw added: "The dangerous and unlawful use of e-bikes and e-scooters on roads and pavements has had devastating consequences both locally and across the country. It remains one of the most pressing concerns raised by residents throughout Lancashire. Since taking office, I’ve consistently called for tougher legislation, and I welcome the new powers introduced in the Crime and Policing Bill that make it easier to seize vehicles being used illegally.
"The reckless and illegal use of e-bikes and similar vehicles has led to tragic consequences both locally and nationally and I'm pleased to see so many dangerous bikes taken off the streets, in Blackburn and elsewhere in the county, and the launch of a new fleet of specialist police motorcycles in direct response to this issue.
"I remain committed to ensuring our officers have the tools they need and will continue to push for the strongest possible laws to protect our communities and keep people safe."
Lancashire Police continue to work closely with local councils, housing associations, and other partners to tackle all forms of anti-social behaviour.
To report nuisance vehicles such as e-bikes, e-scooters, or quads in public areas, or to find out more, visit the dedicated ASB page: www.lancashire-pcc.gov.uk/lancashire-tackling-asb.
Information can also be passed to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. You can also call 101 or 999 in an emergency.
