Officers seized 38 illegally used e-scooters during a national day of action aimed at tackling unsafe and anti-social riding.
The operation, supported by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), saw officers targeting riders using e-scooters unlawfully on roads and pavements.
E-scooters have become increasingly common across the UK, but their use remains widely misunderstood. Under UK law, privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads and pavements.
Rental e-scooters can be used legally, but only within authorised schemes and under strict conditions. There is currently one approved scheme operating in Greater Manchester.
Classed as a motor vehicle, e-scooters require insurance, tax, and a valid licence when used on the road – requirements that privately owned scooters do not meet.
The operation was focused on two elements: education and enforcement.
Inspector Shah, from the Roads Policing Unit, said: “Illegal e-scooter use poses a real risk to both riders and the public.
“Many of those we encounter are uninsured and unaware they are breaking the law. “These operations are about reducing harm and keeping our communities safe and educating members of the public.
“We are urging the public to only use authorised rental schemes from the council and to avoid riding privately owned e-scooters on public roads or pavements.”
Operation AVRO nets arrests in successful day of action
FCHO invite customers and residents to five BioBlitz events
Praise for retiring Hazel
Full extent of £100k council blunder revealed
