65 e-bikes and e-scooters seized during Belfast Weekend of Action

Police seized 65 e-bikes and e-scooters across Belfast during a three-day operation targeting illegal and dangerous riding, with the youngest rider stopped aged just six.

• Police seized 65 e-bikes and e-scooters across Belfast.
• The operation ran from Friday 18 to Sunday 20 September 2026.
• The youngest rider involved was six years old.
• Police made seven arrests.
• Around £3,600 in cash was seized.
• Suspected heroin, cocaine and cannabis were recovered.
• Three petrol-powered motorbikes were also seized.

Police across Belfast have seized 65 e-bikes and e-scooters during a major weekend operation targeting their illegal and dangerous use.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland carried out the three-day Weekend of Action between Friday 18 and Sunday 20 September.

Uniformed officers worked alongside the PSNI Air Support Unit and plain-clothes officers during the operation.

Police said vehicles were seized from both adults and children, with the youngest rider aged just six years old.

Those involved could now face a range of criminal justice outcomes.

Three petrol-powered motorbikes were also seized.

Seven arrests made during Belfast operation

Inspector Matt Adams said the operation had been carried out with concerns raised by local communities at the forefront.

Police made seven arrests for a range of offences, including:

• Possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply
• Dangerous driving
• Aggravated taking and driving away
• Other offences

Officers also seized approximately £3,600 in cash.

Police said a significant quantity of suspected drugs was recovered, including substances believed to be heroin, cocaine and cannabis.

Inspector Adams said:

“Over sixty nuisance vehicles are now off the road.”

Police said uninsured vehicles which are not road legal could be disposed of within 14 days of seizure unless their owners request a review through the Magistrates’ Court at their own expense.

What are the e-scooter and e-bike laws in Northern Ireland?

Police have again reminded riders about the laws covering e-scooters and electric bikes in Northern Ireland.

Privately owned e-scooters are generally treated as motor vehicles when used on public roads or in public places. This means requirements can include insurance, registration and an appropriate driving licence.

Full information is available in the PSNI’s guidance on e-scooter, scrambler and quad safety.

There is an important distinction when it comes to electric bicycles.

Electric bikes which meet the legal requirements for an electrically assisted pedal cycle, commonly known as an EAPC, are treated differently from more powerful electric bikes which may legally be classed as motor vehicles.

Police said inappropriate use of e-scooters and e-bikes in public places can place both riders and members of the public at risk.

Police warn of dangers to riders and the public

Inspector Adams said:

“From a safety point of view, their inappropriate use in public spaces poses a risk to the safety of both rider and the public. People have already been seriously hurt as a result of their use.”

He said the number of vehicles seized during the operation demonstrated the scale of the problem.

Police are asking communities to continue reporting illegal and dangerous riding so officers can take action.

Inspector Adams added that tackling the issue would require cooperation between sellers, parents and guardians, owners, riders, police and other partner organisations.

How to report dangerous or illegal e-scooter use

Anyone who witnesses dangerous or illegal use of an e-bike, e-scooter or similar vehicle can contact police by calling 101.

Reports can also be submitted using the PSNI online reporting service.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting the Crimestoppers website.

More information about e-scooters, scramblers and similar vehicles can be found on the PSNI road safety website.

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