E-scooters seized in Andover and Romsey as part of crackdown on illegal use

A total of 11 e-scooters have been seized in Andover and Romsey as part of a crackdown on illegal use.

Officers from across the Test Valley district carried out a targeted week of action from Monday 30 September to Sunday 6 October to tackle e-scooter riders committing traffic offences.

This comes as part of ongoing efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime in the district.

Throughout the week, officers seized and crushed 11 e-scooters in parts of Romsey and Andover. 

Police Sergeant Stuart Harris, of the Test Valley Priority Crime Team said: “We are aware that the use of these vehicles illegally is a concern to our communities.

“There have been a number of incidents across the country where riders have been injured or killed due to careless riding of e-scooters, and we are hoping this week has educated people on how to safely and legally use them.

“E-scooters still can only legally be used on public roads if they are part of a rental scheme. E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988, so this means the rules that apply to motor vehicles, also apply to e-scooters including the need to have a licence, insurance and tax.

“It's not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters, which means it's illegal to use them on the road or in public spaces.

“Although our week of action is over, we will continue to take reports of vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour seriously and will seize e-scooters seen to be committing crime.”