A DUNDEE Anti-social Behaviour Team has seized more than 20 mini-motos and motorbikes which were being driven illegally in the city over the last two months, The Courier can reveal.

The action is a response to growing public concern over the use of such vehicles and to the dangers attached to their being used in public spaces.

Acting Sergeant David Blackhouse, who leads the police team, said, “The use of these mini-motos has become widespread, not just in Dundee but elsewhere in Scotland and the UK.

“Sadly, despite repeated warnings and advice, many people still appear to be oblivious to the law relating to their use.”

It is illegal to use mini-motos on roads and pavements.

The only place they can be used legitimately is on privately owned land, provided they have the landowner’s permission and are not causing distress to others.

Sgt Blackhouse said the team’s main concern was for the welfare of the public —including those riding the vehicles.

Recently Fintry residents voiced fears about the presence of mini-motos and off-road bikes in Finlathen Park, saying it was only a matter of time before someone gets injured.

“The illegal or irresponsible use of any vehicle can lead to serious or fatal injury,” Sgt Blackhouse said.

“We have everyone’s safety in our minds when we are dealing with incidents involving these vehicles.”

The team reported that in the past two months it had made full use of legislation across Dundee to seize more than 20 vehicles and charge a number of people with offences relating to their use.

However, Sgt Blackhouse said he understood the illegal use of the vehicles could cause great distress in the community and that he was aware the problem has not yet been fully eradicated.

“I can assure the public that we will continue to enforce legislation where these vehicles are being used illegally, remove them from their neighbourhoods and charge those responsible,” he added.

Tayside Police said information the public provides can be invaluable when tackling these kinds of situations.