Police target off-road bikers in Sandwell

During the summer months, West Midlands Police receives increased reports of illegal off-road bikes as the days get longer and the weather gets warmer. 

Hotspots were identified in Sandwell, thanks to information from the public.

Recently, the police Road Harm Prevention Team joined neighbourhood officers from Wednesbury and West Bromwich to target activity around these hotspots. Officers from Sandwell Council were also present.

Officers were visible around the Friar Park, Yew Tree and Hateley Heath areas.

Also on hand were specialist off-road motorbikes which can enter and patrol public parks and wasteland to track down offenders.

A stolen bike was recovered from a canal in Tipton, an illegal e-bike seized and the rider reported for having no licence or insurance. A rider was also reported for an incorrect licensing plate.

PC Lucy Diment, Innovation and Prevention Officer for Sandwell Police, said: “We understand the nuisance and anti-social behaviour off-road bikers cause and we are working closely with our partners at Sandwell Council to combat this.

“Those who ride illegally and put the public at risk will be held accountable – their bikes will be seized and possibly crushed.

“During this operation, we not only executed enforcement activity but we also engaged with local business owners and the public, informing them of how to report anti-social behaviour.

“We also spoke to some motorbike riders, providing education around the law on off-road bikes.”

Councillor Suzanne Hartwell, Sandwell Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for neighbourhoods and community, said: “Tackling anti-social behaviour is one of our top priorities as we know the impact it has on our residents, and we work closely with the police and other organisations to respond to this.

“We are determined to ensure everyone can enjoy our parks and other outside spaces safely, without the nuisance and danger of off-road vehicles, including motorbikes.

“We work closely with Sandwell Police and are supporting their operations to tackle this nuisance. Together we gather and use all information to track down these individuals, and we use our CCTV cameras in key hot spot locations. It is important  people continue to report and share any information that will help us tackle this nuisance.

“We have also installed equipment at key locations to stop bikes from accessing land illegally.

“If people don’t follow the rules, they face having their vehicle seized and crushed.

“It’s the rider’s responsibility to make sure they’re using their vehicle legally, safely and, where off road, with the permission of the landowner.”

A police spokesperson said: "We urge residents to continue to report any issues so that they have up-to-date descriptions by calling 101.

 "You can also report any anti-social behaviour to Sandwell Council."

For more information about off-road biking go to https://www.westmidlands.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/asb/asb/antisocial-behaviour/vehicle-nuisance-involving-cars-bikes-and-mopeds/ or  www.sandwell.gov.uk/motorbikenuisance.