A POLICE Inspector has warned off-road bikers that they face having their vehicles seized if they don't stop using them dangerously around Flintshire communities.

PC Scott Noble of the Flintshire North Policing team announced to residents on Tuesday that officers will be conducting patrols as part of an initiative called Operation Takeoff.

He explained: "We are once again, with the summer months upon us, seeing an increase in the reports of off-road bikes in the Connahs Quay and Shotton wards. 

"We will be conducting patrols and our Operation Takeoff will be underway to look at tackling this issue.

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"If you see any bikes please submit a report to North Wales Police on 101 or via our public webpage so we can actively progress and tackle the situation."

Flintshire North Inspector Wesley Williams told the Leader: "We have had the increase in reports of off-road motorbikes being used in an anti-social way and speeding.

"It's happening in Shotton and a few places around the Killins Lane area of Connah's Quay and near the Rock.

"It has also been happening in Holway as well."

Insp Williams said the riders are understood to be young.

He continued: "There are lots of reports, but they are likely to be the same people riding.

The Leader: Insp Wesley Williams (NWP)Insp Wesley Williams (NWP) (Image: NWP)

"They pose a risk to themselves if they come off the bike, a risk to the public and a wider risk of damage including to land.

"They're mainly riding on the streets but they are going off-road as well, and have been seen riding on common land."

Regarding Op Takeoff, Insp Williams explained: "It's about identifying those involved - engaging with the public to understand who it is.

"Then it's about education with the riders."

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But the Inspector said if education doesn't work, or the riders are caught using the bikes - his officers have the power to seize them.

And if they are uninsured and unlicensed, "they won't be getting it back."

Insp Williams concluded: "The main thing for me is the engagement with the public - if anyone knows who is using these bikes, when and where, let us know via our online webchat, or call 101 or Crimestoppers.

"It's highly unlikely that the people involved in this won't know that what they are doing is wrong.

"We're taking road safety seriously.

"The force is looking to reduce casualties on the road and support residents in preventing anti-social behaviour and riding in general."