Hong Kong police arrest 42 riders in crackdown on illegal use of e-bikes

Hong Kong police arrested 42 riders, including 11 food delivery couriers, for allegedly using electric bicycles on the road in a crackdown in western Kowloon earlier this week.

The force said on Saturday that the group comprised 39 men and three women, aged between 18 and 66, of whom 10 were non-locals. Their bikes were also seized.

Among those arrested were 11 food delivery riders, including an asylum seeker, who allegedly drove electric bicycles to transport takeaway orders, according to police.

The asylum seeker was also arrested for allegedly working illegally.

Senior Inspector Cheng Ho-ming, of Kowloon West traffic task force, said officers launched a five-day “Operation Lightingsteps” on Monday to crack down on the illegal use of electric mobility devices on the roads.

“Electric bikes can go as fast as 50km/h [31mph]. It is almost as fast as a motorcycle. It could pose serious threats to pedestrians or other road users if they are used illegally,” Cheng said.

“Without third-party risks insurance, it means that other road users will not be properly protected in case of accidents.”