E-scooter crime probe announced by MSPs

Crime and anti-social behaviour involving e-bikes and e-scooters is to be probed in a new inquiry.

Police Scotland has seized more than 1,000 electronic cycles and scooters this year so far – approaching twice the 569 confiscated over the whole of the previous year.

Last week the single force said 140 illegally modified devices found during a country-wide crackdown will be destroyed on public safety grounds.

And a number of MSPs have raised problem issues related to e-bikes and scooters in parliament over recent months, including negative effects on communities.

Now MSPs on the Criminal Justice Committee are to hold an inquiry into crime and antisocial behaviour associated with the vehicles.

The probe aims to establish the scale and nature of the problem against the current legal and policy framework.

E-bikes which meet specific legal requirements can be used on public roads, but those capable of speeds of more than 15.5mph or with a maximum power output of more than 250 watts come under the Road Traffic Act, meaning users must hold full UK driving licences, wear helmets and hold insurance.

Meanwhile, e-scooters are not permitted for use on public roads or areas and must only be ridden on private land.

The committee will look at the powers available to police and authorities and examine the Scottish Government’s approach to the subject, including its engagement with UK ministers on reserved matters.

Members hope to identify recommendations to improve enforcement and prevention.

David Linden, who convenes the committee, said: “Crime and antisocial behaviour related to e-bikes and e-scooters is negatively impacting communities right across Scotland, and concerns have been raised that existing measures may not be sufficient to address it.

“Our committee is keen to learn about the causes and impacts of antisocial and criminal behaviour associated with e-bikes and e-scooters and what the Scottish Government is doing about these issues, including its engagement with the UK Government.

“We want to find out if authorities have sufficient powers to tackle these behaviours and if not, what must be done to improve enforcement and help prevent this issue from continuing to blight Scotland’s communities.”

Speaking about the outcome of e-bike crackdown Operation Overlap, Superintendent Andy Barclay, deputy head of road policing, said: “We know this is a growing issue across Scotland and this week of actions shows how seriously we are taking it.

“We are very clear that illegally modified e-bikes are dangerous and not suitable for the public road. They pose a risk to their own riders, the emergency services and other road users, particularly pedestrians.

“We also want to make sure that people are aware of the legislation and their personal responsibilities if using an e-bike or e-scooter.

“Please be mindful of where you can and can’t use vehicles of this type and take responsibility for your own actions and the safety of other road users.”