More than 500 e-scooters are taken off London streets in police crackdown
(Picture: Getty Images)More than 500 e-scooters were seized by police in London over the past week as part of a crackdown on the increased use of uninsured e-scooters.
As many as 507 e-scooters were removed from the roads across the capital’s boroughs following a number of citywide patrols.
Officers spoke to members the public in a bid enforce traffic legislation around the use of e-scooters.
It was described as a “week of action” by the Metropolitan Police, concluding on Sunday June 20.
A Met spokesperson said the action was prompted by an increased use of uninsured e-scooters on London roads.
Officers targeted e-scooters, carried out stops, checked vehicle eligibility and seized e-scooters that were being used illegally.
Chief Superintendent Simon Ovens, commander for roads and transport policing, said: “Private use of e-scooters remains illegal on London roads.
“Riders using e-scooters on the road risk fines, points on their licence, and e-scooter seizures if they continue to use them on public road networks.”
A Met spokesperson added: “In addition to ensuring the safety of roads users, it is a priority for officers to engage with e-scooter riders and the public, educating them on the law and enforcing it where necessary.
“E-scooters are illegal when driven on public roads and pavements, cycle lanes and publicly accessible land, including parks and car parks.”
Incidents occurring on e-scooters can be reported like any other traffic offence.
Anyone with information on illegally used e-scooters linked to crime can call 101 or tweet @MetCC. Information about crime can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, by calling 0800 555 111.
