NINE people were arrested and 19 vehicles were seized by police during an operation to target illegal bikers in Newport.

Gwent Police officers spent two consecutive nights targeting the criminal use of mopeds, motorbikes and other electric bikes across the city.

The operation, involved patrols in unmarked vehicles in a bid to catch offenders in the act of riding anti-socially and committing crime.

Ten mopeds and motorbikes were seized along with three high value mountain bikes and electric bikes.

A further nine vehicles were seized for a variety of offences including no valid insurance and dangerous driving.

Five men were arrested for offences including disqualified driving, possession of heroin and drug driving.

Officers also pursued one offender due to dangerous driving and failing to stop for police, with a 24-year-old man arrested and detained.

And three men aged 18-21 were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.

Gwent Police are stressed that whilst officers are not out to spoil anyone’s fun, especially those that ride legally and abide the law, this operation is intended to act as a reminder that driving high powered bikes anti-socially can cause alarm and distress to other road users and residents.

Anti-social driving can range from being careless to deliberate activity, including speeding, thoughtless driving, continuous lapping on an area, mounting and riding on pedestrian pavements, drink and drug driving, and driving a vehicle in an unsafe condition.

“Groups who continue to deal drugs and commit crime throughout Newport will always look at ways to avoid arrest and prosecution," said Sergeant John Davies.

"What we have achieved as a force using specialist resources, together with local knowledge and engagement, is proof that we will always find tactics to combat these problems. We are now on the front foot with combating moped- and motorcycle-enabled crime which is plaguing our communities.

"We need the public's assistance to obtain intelligence, information and evidence to identify those responsible, locate the bikes, seize them and report the offenders to court."

Superintendent Matt Williams said the operation was mounted i nthe wake of concern from residents about the illegal use of motorbikes and mopeds.

"Whilst the vast majority of motorcyclists obey the law, there are a small minority who ignore the rules and ride dangerously, irresponsibly and for the purposes of crime. This is not acceptable and we will continue to target those intent on behaving in this way," he said.

Anyone with concerns or information relating to anti-social behaviour and driving may call Gwent Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.