Operation Vulcan take flight in Derker

An unrelenting day of action in Oldham has led to the seizure of multiple e-bikes which were being ridden dangerously and anti-socially, including through public parks where children were playing. Officers also made several arrests for offences including drug supply and traffic violations.

The operation, led by Greater Manchester Police’s Operation Vulcan, brought together specialist units including the National Police Air Service (NPAS), the Police Motorcycle Unit, and the Roads Policing Unit. Their combined efforts enabled a swift and effective response to the growing threat posed by illegal off-road bikes and reckless drivers.

Throughout the day, officers identified drivers travelling at excessive speeds and witnessed several near misses.

Thanks to help of our eyes in the sky, NPAS, and skilled drivers on the ground, police were able to follow drivers every move and ensure they were stopped, mitigating the danger to the public.

Authorised tactical stops led to the seizure of several e-bikes and helped build intelligence on individuals using these vehicles to support criminal activity.

For too long, reckless drivers have acted with impunity, endangering residents. Our officers remain committed to targeting those who use e-bikes to drive dangerously or facilitate further crime and we will continue to use all available legal powers to keep these bikes off our streets.

In addition to enforcement, officers and partners engaged with the community, gathering intelligence and making six child safeguarding referrals. These actions will not only help protect vulnerable children but also allow us to take civil action against offences such as storing petrol bikes in residential properties—often in breach of tenancy agreements.

The day also saw arrests for drug supply and driving under the influence of alcohol. Police recovered four illegal e-bikes and a stolen vehicle which will be returned to its rightful owner.

Inspector Dan Cullum, who led the operation, said: “We’re committed to tackling the growing issue of illegal e-bikes in Derker, and days like this show how we can make a real difference by deploying resources both on the ground and in the air.

"We’re continuously working to expand our efforts in tackling the growing issue of illegal e-bikes being ridden in a dangerous and anti-social manner in Derker. By flooding the streets and skies with resources, we will target offenders and offer our support to the community who are being affected by these issues.

"Our work is far from over and we will continue to monitor hotspot areas and take action to protect residents. I want to thank the community for their ongoing support—your information has been vital in helping us remove these bikes from our streets.”

If you know who is using motorcycles anti-socially or to commit crime, let us know. Report online or call Greater Manchester Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

We also urge residents to report where these bikes are being stored. Your information can help us reduce motorcycle-related crime and keep our roads and open spaces safe for everyone.