Northumbria Police have seized more than 800 vehicles as part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal riders across the North East. The force has been working with partners since August 2025 to tackle the illegal use of electric scooters, bikes and off-road motorcycles, deploying a range of tactics including 'tactical contact' to bring riders to a stop.
Operation Capio and partnership efforts
Combined efforts have involved local authorities' Safer Community teams, drone specialists, and Operation Capio – a team of police officers dedicated to stopping motorcycle-related disorder. The force's specialist road safety team, Operation Dragoon, which can use tactical contact to remove riders from their vehicles, has also supported the operation.
Chief Inspector Dean Hood, of Northumbria Police, said: “We recognise motorcycle disorder and the illegal use of e-scooters and bikes are pressing matters for the communities we serve. We are committed as a Force to tackling this issue and will continue to work with partners to put a stop to this behaviour.
“Unfortunately, some riders believe they are untouchable. But we are leaving no stone unturned and will continue to use every tactic available to us. In some cases, we deploy specialist officers to forcibly remove riders from their vehicles if they pose a significant risk to the community. These vehicles in the wrong hands can have fatal consequences as we have sadly seen in our area.”
Vehicles seized and community safety
Over the past 12 months, officers have seized 207 e-scooters, 463 e-bikes and 83 off-road motorcycles. A further 48 quadbikes have been removed from riders who failed to adhere to the law. The seizures include vehicles used in public spaces without a licence or insurance, those ridden at excessive speeds on pavements, and those causing a nuisance and fear to others.
Ch Insp Hood added: “As well as asking riders to think twice, we are requesting that members of the community continue to share any information they think we may find useful. This helps us identify key areas of concern and behaviour patterns to better target our efforts and resources.”
Commissioner's response and next steps
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: “I know the illegal use of e-scooters, bikes and off-road motorcycles is a real concern for many of our communities, so I hope the seizure of more than 800 vehicles brings some reassurance that action is being taken to address this issue and keep people safe.
“The results seen over the past year really do show the scale of the work being carried out by Northumbria Police, specialist teams and partners, and the importance of tackling behaviour that can cause fear and upset for residents. Education also has an important part to play alongside enforcement, helping people understand the law and the risks associated with this type of illegal and dangerous riding.
“I know the force will continue to build on this work, and I’ll keep monitoring progress being made and the impact it’s having, as we work towards safer streets and stronger communities for everyone.”
Police and partners have made it clear that work continues to tackle this issue, and they will continue to use every tactic available to keep the community safe. Anyone with information relating to motorcycle disorder or the incorrect use of e-scooters or bikes is asked to contact police online via direct message on its social media channels, or submit a report form on the force's website.
