Nine off-road bikes seized as officers respond to concerns from residents

Nine vehicles were seized, one traffic offence reported, and three people were arrested following a major police operation to tackle anti-social behaviour caused by e-bikes and quad bikes.

Responding directly to concerns raised by residents, officers maintained a high-visibility presence in the St Mary's area of Oldham and targeted those suspected of using bikes illegally or engaging in anti-social behaviour. 

The Oldham Neighbourhood Team worked alongside Specialist Operations, Roads Policing Unit officers and the Drone Unit on Saturday, July 11 as part of ongoing efforts to tackle the anti-social use of off-road bikes, e-bikes and quad bikes across the district. 

The activity forms part of Operation Hurricane, a coordinated Greater Manchester-wide response aimed at reducing the dangerous and anti-social use of bikes that can cause significant disruption to local communities. 

As a result of the operation: 

• Nine stop searches conducted 

• Nine vehicles seized 

• One traffic offence report 

• One individual reported for summons for disqualified driving 

• Three people were arrested during linked warrants conducted early that morning 

This activity also follows recent disorder in the St Mary's area, during which four police vehicles were damaged by offenders believed to be on off-road bikes. 

Chief Inspector Lee Parker Neighbourhood Lead from Oldham District said: "The anti-social and dangerous use of off-road bikes continues to be one of the issues most frequently raised to us by our communities and we are listening. 

"The recent incidents that saw four police vehicles damaged are completely unacceptable. Attacking emergency service vehicles and officers who are working to keep communities safe will not be tolerated, and we will continue to take robust action against those responsible. 

"Operations like this are designed to disrupt criminality, seize vehicles being used unlawfully and reassure local residents that we are listening to their concerns." 

Pictured above: Quad bikes recovered by police. 

Alongside enforcement activity, GMP is working with local schools, youth clubs, charities and community groups to educate young people about the dangers associated with off-road bikes and illegal e-bikes. 

Officers are also highlighting the links between some bike-related activity and wider criminality, including anti-social behaviour, drug-related offending and exploitation. 

Inspector Amie Whitehead from Oldham’s Neighbourhood Team added: "The day of action saw great results but enforcement is only one part of the solution. We are working closely with schools, youth providers and community partners to educate young people about the risks involved and help steer them away from criminality. 

"We want young people to understand the consequences of their actions, while also providing positive opportunities and support. By working together with our communities, we can make Oldham a safer place for everyone." 

Further days of action will continue throughout the summer in Oldham as part of Operation Hurricane.