Officers have prevented anti-social behaviour in Bournemouth earlier today following intelligence that an illegal procession was planned.
The organiser reportedly posted on social media platforms to tens of thousands of followers, encouraging members of the public to turn up on pit bikes, dirt bikes, e-scooters, e-bikes, quad bikes and other vehicles to “fight against Dorset Police”.
A 20-year-old man from Reading, who officers believe to be the event organiser was arrested at an address in Bournemouth earlier today on suspicion of causing a public nuisance.
Officers attended the location of the gathering and throughout the day have seized numerous illegal vehicles including mopeds, electric motorcycles, e-scooters and adapted pedal cycles. Three other men were also arrested:
- A 20-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, drug driving, possession of class B drugs, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, no insurance, no driving licence and failing to stop for police.
- A 24-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of drug driving, failing to stop for police, no licence and possession of class A drugs.
- A 32-year-old man from Wiltshire was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and no insurance.
All four men remain in custody at this time.
Chief Superintendent Lindsay Dudfield, of Dorset Police, said: “We received contact from members of the public who had seen the publicity of this gathering on social media and raised concerns around the impact it could have on the town.
“Members of the public would have noticed a highly visible policing presence and our officers have seized numerous vehicles and dealt with a large number of individuals intent on causing harm or disruption to our communities.
“This was particularly impactive at a time when many families are visiting Bournemouth for last minute Christmas shopping or for the Christmas Tree Wonderland experience.
“We know that the anti-social riding of e-bikes and e-scooters is of significant concern to our residents and it was vital we acted upon these concerns to ensure everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time in the area.”
Councillor Richard Herrett, Cabinet member for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations said: “We have worked closely with our partners at Dorset Police to minimise the disruption caused by this unauthorised event in our town, just as we would for any other event that might be estimated to draw similar numbers.
“Our CSAS officers were in attendance to support Dorset Police on the day, ensuring public safety and maintaining a visible presence throughout the area.”
