| Officers have been concerned for some time about the growing menace posed to the public by mini-moto, motorcycle and go-ped riders in the city.
The force regularly receives calls about the illegal use of the bikes on roads and footpaths and on common ground in Dundee.
The problem is particularly prevalent in Downfield and Longhaugh and the police have now produced a new leaflet for distribution informing residents of what to do if they spot illegal or anti-social behaviour involving the machines.
Sergeant Steve Main of Longhaugh police station said today parents should avoid buying motorbikes for their children.
He said, “Members of the public are frequently reporting youths speeding around on motorcycles, mini-motos and scramblers.
“Many of them are riding these motorcycles without suitable protective headgear or statutory driving documents such as a driving licence, insurance and road tax.
“Not only are they a danger to themselves in the manner in which they are being ridden, they are also a danger to pedestrians and other road users.
“Complaints have also been received regarding the noise generated by these motorcycles.
“The only place where they can legally ride these motorcycles off road is on private land with the written consent of the landowner.
“I urge parents not to purchase motorcycles, mini-motos or go-peds for their children unless they have already established written permission from private landowners.
“Parents who have already purchased these types of motorbikes should seriously consider their children’s continued use of them, not only for safety reasons but to prevent their children getting into trouble with the law.”
The police will use all powers available to them to eradicate this problem.
“This will include riders and owners being dealt with under the Road Traffic Act and their motorcycles seized under powers granted by anti-social behaviour legislation.
“A person whose motorcycle is seized must, in order to reclaim the vehicle, provide proof of ownership and pay a fee to the appropriate authority of £105 plus £12 daily storage and a £35 out of hours administration charge.”
Anyone with concerns about the use of such motorbikes should call police on Dundee 223200. |
