Illegal bikers tearing up public places on motorcycles in Fife are switching to “old banger” cars following a police clampdown.
Officers fear the irresponsible drivers pose a severe threat as they tear along local roads, often without any licence or insurance.
The trend, seen most recently in Levenmouth, has been described as extremely worrying and police say they are focusing their attention on catching those involved.
The top eight offenders in that area have been identified and four have already been caught.
Police have pledged to continue their efforts in finding those responsible, saying: “The public expect it.”
Levenmouth inspector Tom Brown said the increase in uninsured drivers was an unfortunate consequence of the success of Operation Reflector, aimed at cracking down on illegal bikers.
The operation has been hailed as a triumph against those who were risking lives by speeding across waste ground, farmland, roads and even pavements.
It came to a head when a pet dog was killed in Methil by a biker who failed to stop.
MSP Claire Baker took the issue to the Scottish Parliament which is now considering a change to legislation to give police more powers to tackle it.
Mr Brown said Operation Reflector had led to a reduction in the number of reported incidents involving motor-cyclists.
He added however: “What we’re finding now is a migration.
“Those who were buying motorbikes and riding them on open land are now going out and buying cars.
“They’re getting old bangers and going out on the road.
“There’s severe risk and threat because these people don’t know how to drive properly.”
Mr Brown said officers would be focused on the issue in the long term.
“It’s all about keeping the roads safe. The public expect it,” he said.
Local councillor David Graham, who campaigned against the bikers, said he was concerned to hear they were now using uninsured cars on the road.
“It’s not good it’s on the public highway,” he said. “It’s very, very worrying.”
Claire Baker praised the police for their action against the bikers but added: “It is now deeply concerning to hear about the increase in the driving of uninsured cars, raising a new set of problems that must be tackled head on.
“This reckless and illegal behaviour puts the safety of our communities at risk.”
Meanwhile, Operation Reflector will continue as a priority in Levenmouth to ensure the bikers do not return.
Mr Brown said a number of offenders had been caught and fined or banned and the public was reporting a decrease in the use of motorcycles.