“Scramblers used illegally are not toys — they are powerful machines that can cause serious injury or death”
Police have impounded five scramblers in North Belfast following complaints of anti-social behaviour in the area.
Amid rising community concerns, Neighbourhood Policing Teams carried out two seizures in Ballygomartin and the Antrim Road between Friday October 24 and Sunday October 26.
After the operation, Belfast City Local Policing lead, Superintendent Allister Hagan said: “This operation built upon the work already being done by our Neighbourhood Policing Teams within the community to address the problem. Amongst other measures, we targeted our patrols and utilised evidence-gathering teams.
“As a result, officers seized five scrambler-type bikes – three in Ballygomartin and two in Antrim Road – believed to have been used in anti-social and dangerous riding incidents.
“Scramblers used illegally are not toys — they are powerful machines that can cause serious injury or death. Their reckless use in built-up areas puts riders, pedestrians and other road users at real risk. In the hands of those who are not trained, insured, and wearing protective equipment, they are simply not safe.
“If you own or use a scrambler, you should be aware the majority are restricted to off-road use only. This does not mean that they can be driven anywhere ‘off-road’. These vehicles should only be driven on private land where the landowner has given permission – not pavements, roads, public property or parks.
“Anti-social behaviour of this kind causes fear and frustration in our communities. We again appeal to those that are involved to consider the undeniable consequences if an innocent person in our community dies or is seriously injured because of this dangerous activity.
“We are committed to working with partners and the public to identify those responsible and to keep people safe. We continue to appeal for information to help identify those involved in ongoing anti-social behaviour. If you witness a scrambler or other machine being driven in built-up areas, report it to us at the time or as soon as possible.
“It’s really important that we are made aware of crimes or incidents that impact upon the quality of life in your community, to help us to focus our officers where they are needed and take positive action.
“We would also ask local parents and guardians to speak to their young people about where they are and who they are with, and to warn them of the dangers of getting involved in this type of behaviour. Ultimately, they could end up with a criminal record which may impact their future employment and travel prospects.
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