As part of ongoing efforts to crack down on riders using illegal off-road motorbikes anti-socially in west Kent and Medway, the vehicles were targeted on Sunday 28 January 2024 in response to concerns from residents and members of the public using footpaths and bridleways.
The operation involved officers from Kent Police’s Rural Task Force and Road Safety Unit, supported by colleagues from Sussex Police’s Rural Crime Team.
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The enforcement teams used patrol cars, motorbikes and drones while Sussex Police assisted with their off-road Honda CRF300’s that allowed officers to track through muddy byways.
Areas targeted included Holly Hill in Snodland, Common Road near Blue Bell Hill, Peters Village near Wouldham, Eccles and Burham.
The patrols stopped a total of 60 off-road motorcycles and quad bikes. Two vehicles were seized including a suspected stolen motorcycle and one that was uninsured. Police also issued three traffic offence reports for no insurance and driving licence offences. Six further motorcyclists were given words of advice about the manner of their riding.
PC Luke Jorden, of Kent Police’s Rural Task Force, said:
‘This operation generated some great results not only in terms of numbers of riders stopped but also in the response we had from members of the public. We had the opportunity to meet various members of the community including hikers, dog walkers and horse riders, who were really positive about the action we were taking.
‘We also spoke to responsible riders who were complying with the law and appreciated our efforts to stop those who gave them a bad name. Some said their own motorcycles had been stolen in the past and were pleased we were checking vehicles to see if they were legitimately owned.
‘This enforcement will continue and anyone with concerns or information about the anti-social use of vehicles in their area should report incidents so that we can make the most effective use of our resources.’
Information about the anti-social use of vehicles can be submitted here.