Targeted raids after community complaints
Officers in Chichester have taken a clear stance against what they describe as dangerous and anti‑social use of electric scooters and bikes following a two‑day enforcement operation this week.
The city’s neighbourhood policing team, working with a specialist enforcement unit, seized nine e‑scooters and one e‑bike after responding to concerns raised by members of the public. The action reflects growing unease among residents about riders using these vehicles illegally and recklessly on streets and pavements.
Arrests and traffic reports
Two people were arrested during the operation. According to police, one e‑bike rider was detained on suspicion of dangerous driving and other offences, and another rider was arrested for allegedly breaching a community protection notice. Officers also issued several traffic offence reports, including for using a mobile phone while riding and for performing wheelies.
“The message is clear, the illegal use of e‑scooters, and e‑bike will not be tolerated. Where offences are identified, we will continue to take positive action to remove these vehicles from our roads and protect our communities from anti‑social and dangerous behaviour.”
The force reminded the public that by using these vehicles legally and responsibly people can help keep themselves and others safe, and urged witnesses of dangerous or illegal riding to report incidents online or via 101, or to call 999 in an emergency.
What was taken and immediate outcomes
- Items seized: nine e‑scooters, one e‑bike
- Arrests: two people (one suspected of dangerous driving; one for breaching a community protection notice)
- Other enforcement: multiple traffic offence reports issued
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| E‑scooters seized | 9 |
| E‑bike seized | 1 |
| Arrests | 2 |
For residents this means a visible policing response to an issue that has been causing local annoyance and safety worries. The seizures remove potentially dangerous vehicles from circulation in the short term, while arrests and reports may lead to longer‑term deterrence if offences are pursued in the courts.
How to report incidents
Sussex Police have asked people to continue reporting illegal or dangerous use of e‑scooters and e‑bikes so officers can target problem areas. Reports can be made online or by calling 101; in emergencies callers should dial 999.
Local people who rely on pavements and crossings for everyday journeys — parents with buggies, older residents and schoolchildren — will welcome action that aims to reduce risk. The police statement makes plain that further enforcement is likely where riders continue to flout the rules.
