Police seize 17 e-bikes and make seven arrests in Swansea city centre crackdown

Operation Lathyrus was launched in June to tackle the illegal and dangerous use of e-bikes and e-scooters in the city. Officers began by engaging with riders and local food outlets to raise awareness of the law before moving to enforcement in August.

Under the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (Amendment) Regulations 2015, e-bikes can be used on public roads and cycle paths in Wales if they have pedals, a maximum power output of 250 watts, provide assistance only when pedalling, and cut out at speeds above 15.5mph.

Enforcement results

The first enforcement day on 6 August saw officers stop 30 riders. Twenty were found to be compliant, while 10 bikes had been illegally modified or exceeded the legal power limit. Those bikes were seized and the riders reported for offences under the Road Traffic Act. Two riders were arrested for unrelated offences.

A second operation on Friday 29 August stopped a further 40 bikes. Seven were seized and five arrests made, with the remaining 33 compliant with legislation.

In total across the two days, 70 riders were stopped, 17 e-bikes seized and seven arrests made.

Police warning

City Centre Neighbourhood Inspector Andrew Hedley said:

“Whilst we will continue to educate riders in relation to the law and advise them of their actions, anti-social use of these e-bikes and e-scooters will not be tolerated. Those continuing to break the law will be dealt with more robustly.

“The results during the operation show that many people are using e-bikes lawfully and are open to receiving further education from officers in relation to appropriate use. However, over 30% of the stops showed that these bikes were non-compliant and illegal. Enhancing the power of the bikes not only provides an increased risk to members of the public, but also to the rider.”

South Wales Police say Operation Lathyrus will continue to target riders who disregard the law and negatively impact those living, working and visiting Swansea city centre.

(All images: South Wales Police)

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