Gwent Police officers conducted an operation in the eastern part of Newport on Sunday 5 April, focusing on the illegal use of off-road motorcycles. The activity, carried out as part of Operation Harley, received assistance from a fixed-wing aircraft operated by the National Police Air Service.
A 19-year-old local of Newport was arrested on Beaufort Road on suspicion of dangerous driving, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cannabis, and possessing proceeds of crime.
A home in the Beechwood area was then searched, during which investigators uncovered mobile phones, packaging containing cocaine and cannabis, along with a sum of money. The individual was granted conditional release while enquiries continue.
Authorities also seized a Sur-Ron motorcycle and dealt with a 16-year-old for possession of cannabis with intent to supply. In the Pen-y-wal Drive area of Llanwern, a stolen moped was retrieved and two boys aged 16 and 12 are expected to be interviewed about alleged handling of stolen goods and driving without valid insurance.
During the operation, an electric bicycle that officers suspected had been unlawfully modified was taken into custody.
Gwent Police are urging community members who possess details about drug supply or illegal off-road motorcycle activity in their areas to contact the force via its website, by calling 101, or through its Facebook or X social media channels. Confidential information can be submitted to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
PC Thomas Gardner, neighbourhood ward manager, said officers recognise the considerable impact that unlawful off-road bike usage has on local residents and its clear link to class A drug dealing. Alongside the arrest, an e-bike was seized and two Sur-Ron motorcycles were taken off the roads. The force will continue carrying out similar operations throughout Newport and nearby localities as part of efforts to tackle the problem of illegal off-road bikes and safeguard communities. Residents can help protect their own neighbourhoods by reporting where these bikes are being ridden and stored so that any machines being operated unlawfully can be confiscated.