HASTINGS police are keeping an eye out for riders of illegal “monkey bikes”.
Acting Sergeant Scott West said the mini-bikes were “becoming an issue” as they posed a danger, especially to pedestrians in public areas.
“We all remember the tragedy of the woman struck and killed in Carrum Downs a few years ago and we would hate for something like that to happen again,” he said.
Police are coordinating resources and gathering data to back up a campaign against monkey bike riders. The riders potentially face a raft of charges, including careless riding, riding an unregistered bike, dangerous riding, riding on footpaths and, often, riding without a helmet. Riders caught will have their bikes seized and destroyed.
Sergeant West said two riders had been picked up in the Hastings district recently and others spotted by residents.
“We encourage people to contact us at Hastings police station on 5970 7800 or call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 if they see monkey bike riders,” he said.
First published in the Western Port News – 12 February 2019
