THREE high-powered e-bikes worth an estimated £8,000 have been seized by police following a crackdown on dangerous riding in Denton and Hyde.
Officers said they acted after receiving multiple reports from residents about groups of males wearing balaclavas allegedly riding recklessly through the streets.
A total of five males were detained in connection with the incidents, according to Greater Manchester Police’s Tameside team.
Police say the bikes were seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act and will now be destroyed, with those involved expected to face prosecution.
During the operation, one of the detained individuals was also allegedly found in possession of controlled substances.
The issue of illegally ridden e-bikes has become an increasing source of frustration for residents across Tameside, with complaints regularly raised about riders speeding through residential streets, parks and pedestrian areas while wearing face coverings.
In a statement following the operation, officers said public information had played a key role in helping to identify those involved.
Residents are continuing to be urged to report dangerous or anti-social behaviour through 101, Crimestoppers, or 999 in emergencies.