Three teenagers were arrested after a knife and £8,000 in cash were seized in Liverpool city centre. Officers from Merseyside Police stopped a group of males on Renshaw Street at around 11.30pm on Tuesday, July 28.
The males were wearing balaclavas and dark clothing while riding e-bikes and doing wheelies along the road. They attempted to flee the scene.
Arrests and seizures
Police detained one rider on Renshaw Street. A second rider and his passenger were arrested near Rodney Street. A knife was found at the scene, and one of the males was in possession of £5,000.
Following the incident, officers searched a property linked to one of the suspects. The search led to the discovery of an additional £3,000 in cash as well as cannabis.
Charges and suspects
An 18-year-old man from Netherley was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a knife/sharp pointed article in a public place, and acquiring/using/possessing criminal property.
A 17-year-old boy from Widnes was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a knife/sharp pointed article in a public place, and acquiring/using/possessing criminal property. A 16-year-old boy from Speke was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, driving without insurance, driving without a licence, and dangerous driving.
Police comment
Superintendent David Ambrose said: “These were outstanding arrests and illustrates our commitment to keeping Merseyside safe from people who think it’s acceptable to carry knives and ride e-bikes in a dangerous manner.
“Thanks to the proactive work of officers on patrol in the city centre last night, who not only spotted the males but were also able to take decisive action to stop them in their tracks.
“The riders clearly thought they were untouchable and after doing wheelies in the street and riding on the wrong side of the road, they also tried to evade officers on several occasions. It is testament to the officer’s professionalism that they were detained safely despite their failed efforts to escape.
“We know from speaking to law-abiding members of our community that they have concerns over this type of behaviour. People are fed up with being intimidated by males riding e-bikes or scrambler bikes in a dangerous and anti-social manner and we are determined to remove these people from our streets.
“I hope these arrests send a strong message to anyone who thinks it’s acceptable to use illegal or dangerous vehicles. If you have any information about this issue in your area, please contact us and we will take action.”
