Dozens of seized ebikes destroyed in police crackdown

Police have destroyed 35 ebikes seized during operations near Tweed Heads as authorities continue to target the illegal use of the vehicles.

Officers from the Tweed/Byron NSW Police District have engaged with hundreds of ebike riders over the past 10 months as part of Operation Cyclesafe and Operation E-Voltage.

During several operational deployments, officers seized a total of 35 ebikes, with forfeiture orders for several of the bikes subsequently sought and granted through the courts.

The batteries were removed from the bikes last month before officers attended a waste facility where the seized ebikes were destroyed.

Inspector Matthew Woods said police would continue their enforcement efforts.

“Operations will continue to be undertaken by both uniformed and plain-clothes police targeting the illegal use of ebikes,” Inspector Woods said.

“The community is frustrated by the anti-social behaviour of a minority, and they continue to report incidents to police.

“All information and intelligence received from the community is acted upon and greatly appreciated.

“This information has contributed to the seizure and destruction of these ebikes.

“The message is simple and clear: ride safely and in accordance with legislative guidelines, or risk losing your bike.”

Police have also confirmed that a further 23 forfeiture applications are still before the court.