Western Australia police have issued a stern warning to parents following a major crackdown on illegal e-rideables in Perth's northern suburbs, which resulted in dozens of children being charged and scores of devices seized and destroyed.
Operation Moorhead: A Targeted Police Response
Police laid more than 180 charges and confiscated 76 e-rideable devices during Operation Moorhead in the Joondalup district. The operation, which commenced in early January 2026, was initiated in response to numerous community reports of dangerous behaviour involving these electric vehicles.
Widespread Juvenile Offences
A police spokesman confirmed that 61 juveniles aged between 12 and 16 years, along with 15 adults, faced charges resulting in 183 offences. The charges predominantly involved traffic-related matters, with incidents including children throwing rocks at vehicles, reckless riding, evading police, and operating unregistered devices on public roads.
"Through our officers' interactions with community members, we have observed an increase in community confidence as a result of this operation," said Joondalup District Acting Inspector Scott Gillis.
Police Destroy Seized Devices
The 76 seized e-rideables were subsequently crushed by authorities, sending a clear message about the consequences of illegal usage. The devices included high-powered electric dirt bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters that police determined were unsafe for public use.
Parental Responsibility Emphasised
Acting Inspector Gillis directly addressed parents and guardians, urging them to "familiarise themselves with the laws surrounding e-rideables and to understand the capabilities and risks of the devices they purchase for their children."
He emphasised that "these devices can pose a danger not only to the rider, but also to pedestrians and other road users if they are used unsafely."
Government Takes Strong Stance
Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby declared that Operation Moorhead demonstrated the government's serious approach to addressing the dangers posed by illegal e-rideables. "The e-rideables WA Police have seized are illegal to use on a road," Minister Whitby stated.
"It doesn't matter what age you are, they are deemed an unregistered vehicle," he continued. "e-rideables that are legal, are regulated and can only be ridden by people 16 or older. These devices are not toys and we have zero tolerance for those who ignore the rules and use these devices dangerously."
Operation Concludes with Ongoing Vigilance
While Operation Moorhead has officially concluded, police confirmed they will maintain patrols and continue responding to public reports of dangerous e-rideable behaviour. Authorities expressed gratitude to community members who provided information and supported police efforts throughout the operation.
Minister Whitby concluded: "The results of this operation sends a clear message that antisocial and criminal behaviour involving e-rideables has no place in our community."
