Sunderland police seize bikes illegally modified to reach speeds of up to 40mph

Four illegally-modified bikes were seized by police as part of a crackdown on motorcycle crime.

On Wednesday, Northumbria Police officers carried out a day-long strike in Sunderland city centre as part of Operation Capio. The activity, in partnership with the Sunderland Altogether Improving Lives team, followed reports from the community who were concerned about a spike in disorder and anti-social behaviour linked to motorcycles.

It was reported that riders had been mounting pavements and walkways across the city centre, posing a risk to pedestrians and other members of the public. During the operation, four bikes were seized - they were each found to have been illegally altered to reach speeds of up to 40mph. The bikes will now be destroyed.

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Sgt Chris Mcclennan, of Northumbria Police, said: "We fully understand and recognise the detrimental impact that motorcycle-related crime can have across Northumbria and that’s why it’s imperative that we continue to seize these bikes and identify the riders who are making life a misery for others.

"This day of action was not a one-off and follows significant intelligence received from members of the community who are frankly fed up of this type of disorder and anti-social behaviour. My message to residents and businesses alike is one of thanks and reassurance.

"We have listened to your concerns, and we are taking strong and robust action to ensure this type of criminality is met head-on. As part of Op Capio, we have officers across the entire force area who are proactively targeting nuisance riders and looking to take these illegal bikes off our streets."

Sgt Mcclennan also appealed for the public’s continued help as part of the crackdown. He added: "I'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their support and co-operation. As ever, we’d encourage anyone who has information about motorcycle-related crime in their area to get in touch and report it – so we can take action.

"Crucially, we want to know where these bikes are being stored overnight. Your information could prove the key to our ongoing operation as we all strive to ensure the North East remains a safe and hassle-free environment for all."

Anyone with information can get in touch by sending a message or using the live chat function on the police website. If you do not have access to either, call 101.