Matrix officers from Cleveland Police have seized three illegal off-road bikes during a targeted operation in Middlesbrough and Thornaby, as part of a wider effort to clamp down on nuisance riders disrupting local communities.
The action, which took place on Saturday, 10 May, was supported by police drone surveillance and focused on locations identified through public reports.
Operation Highlights:
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Two off-road bikes were seized on Woodville Avenue where two youths, wearing balaclavas, were caught riding illegally.
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Both riders were stopped in the presence of their parents and reported for driving offences.
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A third bike was recovered from a 16-year-old boy, who had reportedly just purchased and ridden it for the first time.
Cleveland Police have reiterated that unauthorised off-road biking will not be tolerated and are warning others against the dangers and legal consequences of this behaviour.
"These illegal bikes are not only a danger to the public but cause significant distress to residents," a police spokesperson said. "We will continue to act on community intelligence and carry out targeted patrols throughout the summer."
Public Appeal:
Residents are being urged to report sightings or storage locations of illegal off-road bikes:
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Call 101 (non-emergency)
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Visit Cleveland Police Website
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Anonymous tips can be submitted via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111
This proactive enforcement forms part of Cleveland Police’s wider summer campaign to combat anti-social behaviour, particularly in residential and parkland areas.
More from: anti-social behaviour · Cleveland Police · Community Safety
