Police forces in Stoke-on-Trent recently staged a large-scale operation targeting nuisance off-road bikers in the Bentilee area, involving a coordinated effort between multiple units including the road crime team, armed response officers, and the National Police Air Service (NPAS). The operation was notable for the use of a police aircraft, which was seen circling above the neighbourhood during the enforcement action.
During the crackdown, officers seized three bikes—two of which were reported stolen—and arrested four individuals, comprising three riders and a passenger. A spokesperson for the road crime team described the operation and its results, stating: "Patrolling Stoke-on-Trent we started in Bentilee. Not long before, we seized three bikes (two stolen) and arrested three riders and a passenger. Team working with NPAS (National Police Air Service), ARV (armed response vehicle), RCT (road crime team), and response cops. Our net is getting tighter and riding unchallenged is less likely than ever."
This effort forms part of an ongoing initiative to reduce the impact of illegal and anti-social off-road bike use across estates, main roads, and local beauty spots throughout the Potteries and wider North Staffordshire region. The issue is significant enough that it has prompted collaboration between Staffordshire Police and Stoke-on-Trent City Council under an operation known as Operation Transom. This initiative focuses on cracking down on nuisance bikers, with a particular emphasis on holding local authority tenants or those connected to tenancies accountable through potential enforcement action.
Last year saw over 350 reported incidents involving nuisance bikers in the area, highlighting the scale of the issue. In addition to the activities in Bentilee, police in nearby Leek have increased patrols around locations such as Brough Park, Ball Haye Park, and Birchall Playing Fields responding to reports of anti-social riding.
The operation reflects a multi-agency approach incorporating aerial surveillance, armed tactical units, and local response teams aimed at disrupting illegal motorbike activity and enhancing community safety in Stoke-on-Trent. Staffordshire Police have been contacted for further details regarding the ongoing crackdown and its outcomes.
Source: Noah Wire Services