The operation was led by the Fairfield Safer Neighbourhoods Team, working in partnership with Croydon Town Centre policing teams, the Territorial Support Group (TSG), the Metropolitan Special Constabulary, and the Home Office Immigration Enforcement team.
The operation is part of a sustained response to concerns raised by the Fairfield Ward Panel, with pedestrian safety identified as a key policing priority for 2025. Residents and businesses have repeatedly reported issues with modified e-bikes and e-scooters being ridden recklessly in pedestrian zones. These vehicles are also increasingly linked to other criminal activity, including robbery and drug supply.
During the most recent operation in April, officers conducted 15 stops under the Road Traffic Act 1988, resulting in the seizure of 3 vehicles and 3 arrests linked to drug offences, serious sexual offences, and immigration offences. 2 individuals were stopped and searched, 8 traffic offence reports were issued, and 7 official warnings were recorded.
Since the launch of these target operations in October 2024, officers have carried out a total of 122 vehicle stops, seized 14 vehicles, and made 11 arrests. Additionally, they have issued 87 traffic offence reports, conducted 5 stop and searches, released 2 individuals on street bail, and delivered 19 official warnings.
The operations will continue over the coming months, with officers committed to maintaining a visible presence and responding to concerns. Residents and businesses are encouraged to continue reporting any sightings of dangerous or suspicious vehicle use in the town centre.
