Regular police patrols in Meadows following concerns about dirt e-bikes and anti-social behaviour

Police in Edinburgh are conducting regular patrols in the Meadows and surrounding areas following community concerns about dirt e-bikes, associated dangerous riding, anti-social behaviour and criminality. 

Uniformed and plain clothes officers will be in the area to provide reassurance and to identify those responsible for this kind of offending.  

This will include education and enforcement where necessary. 

Unregistered e-motorcycles, e-scooters and non-compliant e-bikes can only be used on private land with the owner’s permission.  

They are subject to the same legal requirements as many other motor vehicles, meaning that they must be insured and drivers must have a valid driving licence. 

Sergeant Mark Barry of the St Leonard’s Community Policing Team, said: “We are aware of concerns and complaints relating to the anti-social driving of dirt e-bikes which are often not road legal.  

“Road safety is a priority for Police Scotland and all road-users need to take responsibility and make sure their vehicles are roadworthy and legal. Illegal vehicles are a major hazard for riders and the general public.  

“Anyone purchasing an e-motorcycle, e-scooter or an e-bike should be aware of the law and the implications of using one in a public place. 

“When it comes to anti-social behaviour involving these type of vehicles we will not hesitate to take action. 

“I would encourage anyone with information or concerns about potentially illegal e-bikes of all types or e-scooters to speak to officers on patrol, contact Police Scotland on 101, or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”