Policing and investigating criminal activities by gangs using e-bikes, e-scooters and e-motorcycles: A collaborative community approach

This chapter explores a contemporary road traffic and criminal phenomenon – namely the use of electronic bikes (e-bikes) of various capacities by urban youths and organised crime groups [OCGs] but particularly electric motor cycles. We introduce and define the issues in play before discussing the methodological issues and in particular the documentary research methodology employed. This is followed by a literature review of the scant literature setting out the main problems to be addressed in responding to the criminal use of the ubiquitous e-bikes as well as documenting some of the criminal, antisocial and road traffic issues involved. Four teaching case studies are introduced to inject a sense of realism and context to the discussion. This is followed by a discussion of the traffic policing and community policing measures which are effectively laid out as an action plan. We also develop a useful typology of criminal and anti-social offenders making a number of observations and conclusions.