A Shockwave Through Perth: Are E-Rideables Really the Menace Police Claim? Imagine your child's brand new electric scooter, a Christmas gift or birthday surprise, being seized and crushed into scrap metal. That's the reality for some families in Perth, where a recent police crackdown has ignited a firestorm of debate over the use – and alleged misuse – of e-rideables. Authorities claim these devices are being used dangerously and illegally, prompting a zero-tolerance approach. But is this a justified response, or an overreach that unfairly punishes young people and responsible owners alike?
Operation Moorhead, launched in the northern suburbs of Joondalup on January 5th, targeted the increasingly popular e-rideables – electric scooters and off-road bikes – after a surge in community complaints about reckless and anti-social behavior. The police action comes after numerous reports alleged that riders, predominantly under the age of 18, were allegedly engaging in dangerous activities. These included throwing objects at pedestrians and vehicles, performing reckless stunts on public roads, and, perhaps adding insult to injury, documenting and sharing their exploits on social media platforms.
The operation resulted in the seizure of 36 e-rideables and the charging of 25 juveniles, aged between 11 and 16, along with four adults, for various traffic-related offenses. While Operation Moorhead specifically targeted Joondalup, Western Australia Police have made it clear that this is just the beginning. They intend to aggressively pursue the unlawful and illegal use of e-rideables throughout the entire state.
'Totally Unacceptable': The Police Perspective
While no physical injuries were reported during Operation Moorhead, Acting Inspector Scott Gillis of the Joondalup Police described the social media footage as “disturbing.” He highlighted one alarming incident involving a 12-year-old riding an e-rideable capable of reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour. That's faster than many cars travel on city streets!
"Riding in an unsafe manner can have serious consequences," Acting Inspector Gillis stated, emphasizing the need for public awareness regarding the legalities of purchasing these devices for children. "WA Police will not tolerate anti-social behavior that targets our community. It's totally unacceptable."
But here's where it gets controversial... While the police focus on the dangers and illegal activities, some argue that a blanket crackdown isn't the solution. Are we unfairly punishing all e-rideable users for the actions of a few? Could more education, designated riding areas, and stricter enforcement of existing traffic laws be a more effective approach?
An Urgent Message to Parents
Adding another layer to the debate, children under 16 will be prohibited from riding and even storing e-rideables at public schools across Western Australia starting this year. Acting Inspector Gillis emphasized that police will collaborate with schools to educate students and families leading up to the 2026 school year, ensuring everyone is aware of the new regulations.
He also noted a concerning trend: some parents seemed unaware of how their children were using these devices. "We really encourage parents to take the opportunity now to look at [e-rideable] requirements," he urged. "This is an opportunity for parents to sit down with their children, look at their devices, and have the conversation. Where are you going? What are you doing?"
And this is the part most people miss... The police are not just appealing to parental responsibility; they are issuing a direct warning. "Take a long, hard look at your actions," Acting Inspector Gillis said, addressing those who are using e-rideables illegally. "If you have your [illegal] e-rideables out in the community, we are going to find you, seize it, and it will be crushed.”
The message is clear: the police are taking a hard line on e-rideable misuse.
A Call to Action
Police inquiries are still active, and anyone with information related to illegal e-rideable activity is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Now, it's your turn to weigh in: Is the police crackdown a necessary measure to ensure public safety, or an overzealous response that unfairly targets young people and responsible e-rideable users? Should there be more emphasis on education and designated riding areas, rather than outright bans and device destruction? Do you think parents are truly unaware of how their children are using these devices, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Let's start a conversation about finding a balanced approach to e-rideable use in our communities.
