Police Plane Supports Operation Targeting Nuisance Riders

A police aircraft was deployed over North Northmptonshire at the weekend as part of a major operation targeting the illegal use of e-scooters, e-bikes and nuisance motorcycles.

The National Police Air Service (NPAS) supported officers on the ground during Operation Tides, spending around six hours in the air over Corby, Desborough, Rothwell and Kettering.

The day of action resulted in 29 vehicles being seized, including 23 e-scooters, two e-bikes, three motorcycles and a car.

A police aircraft crew was drafted in to support an operation targeting nuisance motorcycle riders in Desborough  Pic: NPAS

Police said several riders attempted to evade officers, with almost half of those stopped trying to make off. One motorcyclist was wanted in connection with an alleged harassment incident, while another was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving after failing a roadside breath test.

Chief Inspector Nathan Shepherd said the operation was launched in response to concerns from residents about anti-social behaviour, dangerous riding and near-miss incidents involving pedestrians.

He said officers would continue carrying out proactive operations to tackle illegal and irresponsible use of e-scooters, e-bikes and motorcycles across the area.

The operation follows similar enforcement activity in Desborough in recent months, where a number of nuisance motorcycles have already been seized, with riders reported for various offences.