Australian authorities are taking a hard line against teenagers misusing high-speed e-bikes and scooters, with police in Western Australia (WA) resorting to confiscation and destruction of the vehicles. The operation, dubbed “Operation Moorhead,” follows a surge in reports of reckless riding, public intimidation, and dangerous stunts captured on social media.
The Rising Problem of Unruly E-Bike Use
Police responded to complaints about youths evading officers, throwing objects at vehicles, and operating e-bikes capable of reaching speeds up to 50 miles per hour. The crackdown resulted in the arrest of 25 individuals aged 11 to 18 and the seizure of 36 micromobility devices. A disturbing video posted by WA police shows an excavator crushing the confiscated e-bikes, flattening them and dumping them into a scrap pile.
“WA police will not tolerate anti-social behaviour that targets our community,” Acting Inspector Scott Gillis stated in a press release. “It’s totally unacceptable.”
The Global Trend of E-Bike Injuries and Regulation
The situation in Australia reflects a broader global trend of escalating injuries related to e-bikes and scooters. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported a 21% increase in injuries between 2021 and 2022, while a study in the American Journal of Public Health found e-bike injuries rose by 293% and scooter injuries by 88% between 2019 and 2022.
This rise in incidents has prompted local governments worldwide to implement stricter regulations. Houston recently approved a curfew for e-scooter use, while South Carolina now allows fines up to $500 for exceeding a 12 mph speed limit. New York City has also increased penalties for e-bike violations, though critics worry about disproportionate enforcement against delivery drivers.
Parental Awareness and Legal Compliance
Part of the problem, according to authorities, is that many parents are unaware of the capabilities of modern e-bikes. They purchase these devices without realizing their potential for high speeds and often violate existing road laws. Police emphasize that e-bikes are legally considered vehicles and must adhere to the same traffic regulations unless specifically exempted.
The aggressive response in Australia underscores the growing concern over the misuse of micromobility devices and the need for both stricter enforcement and increased public awareness.
These measures are being taken to maintain public safety in the face of an increasingly dangerous trend.
