Wiltshire Police have launched a new operation to clamp down on the illegal use of e-scooters and high-powered e-bikes, in a bid to improve public safety and tackle their link to antisocial behaviour and crime.
Operation Jetsom, which began on 27th June, will run in two phases. The first phase focuses on education and awareness, with officers stopping riders to explain the law, carrying out school visits before the summer holidays, and running a public information campaign online. The goal is to raise awareness among users, buyers, and parents who may not fully understand the legal risks involved in using these vehicles.
However, from 1st August, the campaign will move into its enforcement phase. From that point on, anyone caught riding an illegal e-scooter or a modified, high-powered e-bike on public roads or pavements can expect the vehicle to be seized and destroyed. Police are making it clear that enforcement will be swift and decisive.
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Saunders said: "We are aware of the considerable public concern around high-powered e-bikes and e-scooters, which are often ridden dangerously on our roads and pavements.
“We’re also aware of the link between e-bikes, which have often been illegally modified and can reach speeds of more than 40mph, and youth violence across the country.
“It is something we have seen in Swindon and the wider county, where they are used to commit serious crimes while also putting the riders of these vehicles and other road users at risk of serious injury. We are determined to clear our streets of them to protect the public.
“Both modes of transport are illegal for a reason. They put pedestrians going about their daily business in danger, particularly when ridden through busy areas at high speeds.
“We know there are many people who use their e-scooters for innocent reasons, such as travelling to work or visiting friends.
“The law is very clear, however, that unless you are in a trial scheme area on an official rented e-scooter, they are illegal to ride in public.
“There are no such trial schemes anywhere in Wiltshire.
“We also know there is confusion about the laws around e-bikes and e-scooters, which is why we are running an awareness phase first to educate both riders and buyers of the vehicles, such as parents, of the law surrounding them.
“From August 1st, if you’re seen on one by officers, expect to be stopped and have it seized – and as they are uninsurable, you won’t be able to get it back.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson also backed the operation, citing the growing number of incidents where these vehicles are being used irresponsibly or as tools for criminal activity. He said his office has already been working with Wiltshire Police through the “Spot the Signs, Stop the Crime” campaign, which helps parents and young people recognise the signs of child exploitation. Unfortunately, he noted, illegal e-scooters and e-bikes are now often tied to those same issues.
“This targeted response is about sending a clear message: if you’re using these vehicles illegally or dangerously, you will be stopped, your vehicle may be seized, and you could face prosecution.
“At the same time, we recognise that many people simply aren’t aware of the laws around e-bikes and e-scooters. That’s why education is a key part of our approach—helping people understand the legal requirements and the potential risks involved.
“Our priority is public safety and whilst we want to support the responsible use of these vehicles, we won’t tolerate behaviour that puts others at risk or contributes towards crime on our streets.”
Operation Jetsom will continue across the county throughout the summer. Officers are encouraging residents to learn more about what is legal and what isn’t, especially before making a purchase for themselves or their children.
Further information can be found by visiting the government website on electric bike and scooter rules.
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