The Lurgan Local Policing Team conducted two days of targeted enforcement in response to persistent community concerns about illegal and anti-social use of scramblers, e-bikes and e-scooters in the Lurgan and Craigavon areas.

Sergeant Adam Patterson said: "This 'Two Wheel Vehicle Operation' took place on Friday 31st July and Saturday 1st August.

"Over the two day period, we seized a total of 23 vehicles. Two adults were arrested and two were cautioned for motoring offences. In addition, one young person was arrested whilst the remainder were spoken with in the presence of their parents or guardians and have been referred to the Youth Diversion Officer in relation to the offences committed. Where appropriate, educational justice outcomes will be sought.

"Following the seizure of one electric motorcycle in the Kilwilkie area of Lurgan on Saturday evening, and the arrest of the 25-year-old driver on suspicion of a number of motoring offences, we conducted a search of his property. Over half a kilogram of cannabis was discovered within the property, and he was further arrested on suspicion of possession of class B controlled drugs with intent to supply. He has since been released on bail to allow for further enquiries.

"The second arrest occurred while we were patrolling on Friday. A member of the public made us aware of his concerns in relation to a driver in the Church Place area. The 58-year-old was later charged with driving with excess alcohol in breath, to appear before Craigavon Magistrates' Court on Wednesday 26th August. As is usual procedure, the charge will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service. "A 17-year-old boy was stopped by police riding an e-bike on the wrong side of the road. He attempted to make off from police, but was arrested on suspicion of driving offences and possession of a class B controlled drug. It was later established that the e-bike had been stolen. Following questioning, the boy has been released on bail to allow for further enquiries.

"Local officers – in both uniform and plain clothes - were supported in the 'Two Wheel Vehicle Operation' by colleagues from Air Support Unit, who deployed a drone in the area, and our District Support Team."

Sergeant Patterson continued: "Twenty three nuisance vehicles are now off the road – and, as these uninsured vehicles are not road legal, they will be disposed of by police within 14 days of seizure unless the owner requests a review by the magistrates court, at the owner's expense."

He also outlined the legal position: "Under current legislation, e-scooters and e-bikes are deemed to be motor vehicles, meaning the rider must have a driving licence and the vehicle must be taxed, insured and fitted with lights and a number plate.

"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.

"The number of vehicles seized demonstrates the scale of this problem. As we do all we can to detect offenders, we'd ask that our local community continues to report the illegal and dangerous driving of these vehicles so we can help to make our roads safer for everyone."

Anyone with information can call 101 or report online at reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals. You can also contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. Further information on the law around e-scooters is available at www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/roads-and-driving/e-scooter-scrambler-and-quad-safety.