Operation Gears: Merseyside Police Crack Down on Stolen E-Bikes and Electric Motorcycles

Merseyside Police has been conducting a force-wide initiative, Operation Gears, targeting the unlawful use of two-wheeled vehicles that pose a danger to communities and facilitate crime. Following a warrant in Prescot, 11 suspected stolen e-bikes, scrambler bikes, and mopeds were seized, with enquiries ongoing to identify those responsible. The operation aims to raise awareness of the law surrounding electric bikes and motorcycles, emphasizing the need for vehicles to conform to Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations and be properly licensed, insured, and registered. Temporary Inspector James May stressed the importance of community involvement in reporting illegal use of these vehicles, which are increasingly linked to serious offences, including violence and organized crime.

Key Takeaways:

• 11 suspected stolen e-bikes, scrambler bikes, and mopeds were seized during a warrant in Prescot, with enquiries ongoing to identify those responsible.
• Operation Gears is a force-wide initiative targeting the unlawful use of two-wheeled vehicles that pose a danger to communities and facilitate crime.
• For an electric bike to be classified as an EAPC (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle) in the UK, it must have a motor limited to 250 watts and assist only while pedalling, cutting out at 15.5mph.
• The operation has seen proactive patrols, intelligence-led interventions, and community engagement across Merseyside since its launch in early July.
• Temporary Inspector James May emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting illegal use of e-bikes and electric motorcycles, which are increasingly linked to serious offences.
• Merseyside Police is urging the public to familiarize themselves with the law and ensure their electric bikes are road legal.
• A high-quality lock, registration with a security marking scheme, and fitting a GPS tracking device are recommended to keep e-bikes and riders safe.
• Bike owners should keep a record of the frame number, use secure cycle parking, and display lights at night.

Statistics:

• 11 suspected stolen e-bikes, scrambler bikes, and mopeds were seized during the warrant in Prescot.
• Early July marked the launch of Operation Gears, a force-wide initiative targeting the unlawful use of two-wheeled vehicles.
• The operation has seen a focus on community engagement, with proactive patrols, intelligence-led interventions, and educational efforts underway since its inception.
• Temporary Inspector James May stressed the importance of reporting illegal use of e-bikes and electric motorcycles, citing their links to serious offences, including violence and organized crime.

Sources:

• Operation Gears | Merseyside Police
• Merseyside Police