Anger and fear over 'dangerous' illegal e-motorbike riders
Communities in the UK are reporting increased intimidation and danger caused by illegal e-motorbike riders performing stunts on pavements and public roads. The government has responded by granting police new powers to seize vehicles involved in anti-social behavior.
Why it matters
This highlights a growing public safety concern regarding the regulation of new personal electric transport and the enforcement of traffic laws.
Image caption, Britt said she was aimed at by a group of riders while walking on a pavement
Riders on powerful electric motorbikes are intimidating pedestrians, damaging property and putting people at risk by riding dangerously through towns and villages, communities have warned.
Residents have described riders performing wheelies and riding on pavements and footpaths at high speed, often while wearing balaclavas.
"I've seen little old ladies have to run," said Britt, who fears being hit by one. "I've seen little kids being aimed at."
The government says it has introduced new powers to allow the police to seize vehicles used anti-socially without having to issue a warning first.
Image source, YouTube Image caption, E-motorbike riders illegally drive down the M2 motorway
Britt, from Burgess Hill in West Sussex, describes how groups of riders on powerful electric motorbikes regularly race through the streets.
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