In response, police have intensified precision-led policing using intelligence, data and technology to identify where illegal or unsafe vehicles are being used. Over the past year, more than 2,500 illegal and unsafe e-bikes and e-scooters have been seized across London, helping to remove dangerous vehicles from the streets.
Police are also taking firm action against riders suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Riding an e-bike or e-scooter while impaired is illegal and unsafe and has been linked to an increase in near-misses and collisions, particularly involving high-powered e-bikes.
In Croydon, this work is being led through Operation Veyvah, a targeted e-bike operation launched at the end of 2024. To date, the operation has resulted in:
- 274 vehicle stops
- 134 traffic offences recorded
- 29 warnings issued
- 13 stop and searches
- 19 arrests
Further days of action are planned for February and March in Croydon town centre.
The Metropolitan Police are also encouraging residents, workers and businesses to share their views on e-bike and e-scooter use in the borough. Feedback will help shape future priorities and inform work with partners to deliver longer-term solutions.
A short survey is available online for anyone who would like to have their say: https://survey.metengage.co.uk/Survey/GUID/c2c1fffd-0a6e-491e-b542-bd1782e2b772
Alongside activity from Metropolitan Police Service, Croydon BID is continuing to support a safer town centre through its Police funded operations, Street Rangers and Radio Link network, which work closely with local businesses and partners to report concerns, share information and provide an additional visible presence on the streets.
For more information, visit: https://croydonbid.com/business/resolve/
