Glenorchy Police are cracking down on the unlawful use of motorised pushbikes, following an increase in reports of dangerous riding behaviour on public streets, off-road areas and near private dwellings.

Sergeant Amanda Hall believes the main offenders are predominantly youths. Several people, including youths, have already been charged for a variety of public order, traffic, and environmental related offences.

Sergeant Hall said, “In all cases the motorised pushbikes have been seized and will remain with Tasmania Police until the completion of court proceedings. In some cases, the bikes seized may be forfeited.”

“In an effort to reduce the issues, we will continue to undertake high visibility and covert policing to identify and apprehend offenders.

“We’re using a range of resources to target these unlawful and anti-social behaviours, including drones, which can track movements and identify addresses and locations of interest.

“Riders often wear helmets and in all cases the bike are unregistered, which is why we rely heavily on information from the public to help us identify offenders.”

“We urge any community members who have information (including dash cam or home surveillance footage) concerning the unlawful use of motorised pushbikes to share this with Glenorchy police.

“Information from the public is vital, both in reducing the offending behaviour, making our roads and footpaths safer and in ensuring successful prosecutions.”

Anyone who witnesses offences occurring is urged to report it to police at the time it occurs, to enable police to have the best opportunity to detect the offender.

Information can be provided by attending your local police station or calling police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.