UK police report surge in illegal e-bike and e-scooter seizures

Police across the United Kingdom are reporting a significant rise in the seizure of illegal e-bikes and e-scooters. Data reveals that confiscations of dangerous e-bikes increased by 83 percent over a single year, with 7,049 machines seized in the 12 months leading up to May 19.

Authorities are concerned that many non-compliant machines are modified to exceed legal limits, with some capable of speeds over 70 mph. Under UK law, legal electrically assisted pedal cycles must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and cut out at 15.5 mph. Illegal models, which often function as unregistered mopeds, are being linked to fatalities, severe injuries, and criminal activities including phone theft and drug dealing.

In a recent incident in Bracknell, Thames Valley Police seized a £1,000 e-scooter after a 16-year-old was caught riding it at 43 mph through a public park. Police reminded the public that privately owned e-scooters can only be legally operated on private land with permission. Seized machines are typically sent to scrapyards rather than being returned to owners.