The Metropolitan Police have arrested 187 individuals and seized 157 vehicles as part of an operation targeting prolific thieves who utilize e-bikes and mopeds in Westminster. The crackdown, which ran from February to July, led to arrests for offenses including possession of dangerous weapons, drug-related crimes, robbery, and theft.
Plain-clothed and uniformed officers conducted patrols in identified hotspot areas, stopping offenders known to the police. Det Supt Gareth Gilbert, who led the operation, stated that officers aimed to "staying one step ahead of the criminals who use high-powered bikes or mopeds to steal from Londoners."
During the operation, e-bike-related crime saw a 22% decrease in key transport and tourist hubs within Southwark and Lambeth, including areas around Waterloo and London Bridge. Footage released by the Metropolitan Police shows officers employing high-powered Sur-Ron e-bikes to pursue suspects.