Cessnock Police will be targeting youths on unregistered motorbikes as part of the Hunter Valley Police District’s Operation RIDA (Report Illegal Dirtbike Activity), which is now underway.
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Hunter Valley youth liaison officer, Senior Constable Michael Steele said the number of young people riding unregistered motorbikes is a big problem in the Cessnock local government area, and that police are going to make a “concerted effort” to have an impact on the problem.
“We are targeting the premises where they live, seizing unregistered motor bikes and restricting access to fuel,” Senior Constable Steele said.
“Under the Tenancies Act, tenants have an obligation not to engage in or behave in a certain way that interferes with the comfort of neighbours – coming and going on loud, unregistered motor bikes is in breach of that.
“The Road Transport Act 2013 gives police the power to seize the bikes and then we make application to the local court for forfeiture of the bikes.
“I already have applications for the forfeiture of two motor bikes before the court.
“The Dangerous Goods Code Of Practice 2005 prohibits persons aged under 16 years of age to operate a fuel bowser.”
Senior Constable Steele said police are often battling generational attitudes when it comes to dealing with young people riding motorbikes illegally.
“Some parents are condoning their children disobeying all traffic rules and regulations, which only reinforces a lack of respect for road rules,” he said.
Senior Constable Steele said motorbike riders should be aware that the same rules apply in national parks as on public roads – bikes must be registered, and riders must be licensed.
As part of Operation RIDA, police are are asking members of the community to be their eyes and ears in relation to this issue.
Anyone with information on illegal dirt bike activity is encouraged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000. Calls can be anonymous.
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