Lancashire Police seize more nuisance e-bikes than nearly every other force in UK
Hundreds of illegal e-bikes have been taken off the streets and crushed in a county-wide crackdown - more than most areas in the country....
Lancashire Police have seized more nuisance e-bikes than nearly every other force in UK, with nearly 700 taken off the streets in the last two years.
The force’s success in tackling the use of illegal bikes and scooters was revealed in new figures published by the Press Association. The news agency contacted police forces across the UK and requested the data under freedom of information laws.
The figures showed Lancashire Constabulary confiscated 687 e-bikes between May 20, 2024 and May 19, 2026 - more than all but three UK forces - London’s Met, Police Scotland and Leicestershire Police.
Lancashire Police have been actively targeting the illegal, anti-social use of e-bikes, e-scooters, and off-road motorbikes through targeted operations like Operation Centurion, with the support of Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw.
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: “Through our Lancashire Talking survey, the public tell us that nuisance vehicles and the use of illegal E-bikes and E-scooters is one of their top concerns and that is why are carrying out operations like this and will continue to do so.
“ASB is unacceptable - Everyone has the right to feel safe in their home and community and I hope that these results will demonstrate to the public that we are listening to your concerns and we are acting upon them.
Don’t miss the stories shaping Lancashire. Sign up to our free breaking newsletter
“This week, we launched a new fleet of specialist motorcycles in our bid to further crack down on anti-social behaviour. Six on and off-road bikes, equipped with lights and sirens, will support officers working on Operation Centurion.
“Lancashire Police continue to work closely with local councils, housing associations, and other partners to tackle all forms of anti-social behaviour.
40 bikes in 1 day
In just one day last month 40 illegal E-bikes and E-scooters were seized in Preston as part of a day of action to tackle anti-social behaviour and nuisance vehicles.
Officers from the Road Policing Unit and Preston’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, with the support from the National Police Air Service, carried out an operation in Ribbleton, one of our most reported areas of motorcycle nuisance.
It 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, 40 vehicles were seized by officers, mostly under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act for not having insurance or a license. There were also a number of stolen vehicles recovered and some which are suspected to be stolen.
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.
To report issues or 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.