Police Seize 23 Illegal E-Bikes, E-Scooters and Scramblers in Lurgan Operation
2 August 2026
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Police Seize 23 Illegal E-Bikes, E-Scooters and Scramblers in Lurgan Operation
Police seized 23 e-bikes, e-scooters, electric motorcycles and scramblers during a two-day operation across Lurgan and Craigavon.
Two adults and one teenager were arrested. Officers also recovered more than half a kilogram of suspected cannabis after searching a property in Lurgan.
One man was charged with drink-driving offences, while a stolen e-bike was also recovered.
Key facts from the police operation
23 Vehicles seized by police
3 People arrested during the operation
500g+ Suspected cannabis recovered
Officers have seized 23 illegal e-bikes, e-scooters and other nuisance vehicles during targeted enforcement action in Lurgan and Craigavon.
The Lurgan illegal e-bike operation took place on Friday 31 July and Saturday 1 August. Police launched the operation following continued community concern about dangerous and anti-social riding.
Uniformed and plain-clothes officers took part. They received support from the PSNI Air Support Unit and District Support Team.
A police drone was also deployed during the operation.
Three People Arrested During Lurgan Illegal E-Bike Operation
Two adults and one young person were arrested over the two days.
Police also cautioned two adults for motoring offences.
Other young people encountered by officers were spoken to in the presence of their parents or guardians. They have been referred to a Youth Diversion Officer.
Police said educational justice outcomes would be considered where appropriate.
Sergeant Adam Patterson said the number of vehicles seized showed the scale of the problem affecting local communities.
Cannabis Recovered After Electric Motorcycle Seizure
One of the arrests followed the seizure of an electric motorcycle in the Kilwilkie area of Lurgan on Saturday evening.
Police arrested the 25-year-old rider on suspicion of several motoring offences.
Officers later searched his property and discovered more than half a kilogram of suspected cannabis.
The man was then further arrested on suspicion of possessing a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply.
He has since been released on police bail while enquiries continue.
Suggested caption: “A number of electric motorcycles, e-bikes and other vehicles were seized during the first night of the police operation.”
Man Charged Following Church Place Report
A second adult was arrested after a member of the public raised concerns about a driver in the Church Place area.
The 58-year-old man was later charged with driving with excess alcohol in his breath.
He is expected to appear before Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 26 August 2026.
As is standard procedure, the charge will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
Stolen E-Bike Recovered by Police
Police also stopped a 17-year-old boy who was allegedly riding an e-bike on the wrong side of the road.
Officers said the teenager attempted to make off but was detained.
He was arrested on suspicion of driving offences and possession of a Class B controlled drug.
Police later established that the e-bike had been reported stolen.
The teenager was released on bail after questioning to allow further enquiries to continue.
What Happens to the Seized Vehicles?
Police said the 23 seized vehicles were uninsured and not road legal.
According to the PSNI, the vehicles may be disposed of within 14 days unless an owner requests a review through the magistrates’ court. The cost of seeking that review must be met by the owner.
Sergeant Patterson said:
“Twenty-three nuisance vehicles are now off the road.”
He added that the dangerous use of these vehicles in public places can place riders, pedestrians and other road users at risk.
Are E-Bikes and E-Scooters Legal in Northern Ireland?
The rules depend on the type of vehicle.
Privately owned e-scooters generally do not meet the legal requirements for use on Northern Ireland’s public roads, pavements or other public spaces.
The PSNI states that anyone using a motor vehicle on a public road may require:
- A suitable driving licence
- Third-party insurance
- Vehicle registration
- A number plate
- Vehicle tax
- Required lights and reflectors
- Compliance with construction and use regulations
However, some pedal-assisted electric bicycles qualify as electrically assisted pedal cycles, commonly called EAPCs.
Compliant EAPCs are treated differently from electric motorcycles and modified e-bikes. Riders should check that a bicycle meets all legal EAPC requirements before using it on a public road.
Official information about electric vehicles and road use is available through the PSNI e-scooter, scrambler and quad safety guidance
Police Ask Residents to Continue Reporting Dangerous Riding
Police have asked residents in Lurgan, Craigavon and surrounding areas to report dangerous or illegal riding.
Anyone who witnesses an incident requiring an immediate police response should call 999.
Non-emergency information can be provided by calling 101 or through the [PSNI online reporting service – Insert Link].
Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or using the Crimestoppers anonymous reporting service
Crimestoppers states that it does not ask for personal information and allows members of the public to submit crime information anonymously.
Report dangerous or illegal vehicle use
Contact police if you have information about dangerous riding, stolen vehicles or anti-social vehicle use. Call 999 when someone is in immediate danger.
Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. For non-emergency police assistance, call 101.
Residents are encouraged to report dangerous riding before someone is seriously injured.
Share this article with parents, vehicle owners and other residents across Lurgan and Craigavon so they understand the rules and know how to report concerns.
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