Sydney e-bike blitz: Man allegedly drug-driving bike with no pedals
During a two-day compliance blitz in Sydney’s south, a man allegedly under the influence of drugs was caught riding an e-bike without pedals.
Police issued 170 fines and issued warnings to 99 e-bike riders at Sutherland, South Sydney and East Coast Police Area Commands last Tuesday and Wednesday. Additionally, more than 250 people were breath tested, 26 people were drug tested, five criminal charges were filed, and 21 traffic tickets were issued.
Police said the operation “focused on preventing and reducing the illegal and dangerous use of inappropriate e-bikes and associated anti-social behaviour, particularly among young people”.
Highway Patrol officers spotted a person riding an e-bike without a helmet and pedals on Wednesday, a spokesman said.
“When he was disqualified he was given a notice of future court attendance. The man was fined for having an unregistered and uninsured bike and not wearing a motorcycle helmet. He was also cautioned for riding on the pavement,” police said.
“The man allegedly tested positive in a roadside drug test and a second test was sent for analysis. The man’s bicycle was also confiscated.”
He will appear at Sutherland Local Court on April 16.
Inspector Anthony Boyd said police took illegally modified e-bikes “seriously”.
“NSW Police will continue to carry out operations to prevent careless driving where other road users and pedestrians are put at risk,” Inspector Boyd said.
“Although e-bikes are a great means of transport when ridden safely and most people follow the rules, police have seen an increase in illegal or anti-social e-bike rider behaviour.
“Disappointingly, officers saw a number of riders using modified and non-compliant e-bikes and we took appropriate action. We urge riders to learn and comply with the law.”
More to come
