POLICE in Pembrokeshire are deploying forensic DNA spray as part of a targeted operation to tackle dangerous and antisocial riding on illegal e-bikes and e-scooters.

Dyfed-Powys Police have begun a series of enforcement operations using SelectaDNA – a forensic spray containing a unique code that can be traced to a specific location, date and time.

Traditionally used to mark property at risk of theft, the spray is now being used to identify individuals and vehicles involved in illegal riding, particularly where offenders attempt to conceal their identities.

The operations follow a sharp rise in complaints, particularly across south Pembrokeshire. Police received 60 reports over a six-month period, with 92 per cent of callers raising concerns about antisocial or dangerous riding. Many reports involved riders wearing face coverings.

Across the Dyfed-Powys force area, officers have seized 19 e-bikes and 28 e-scooters during recent enforcement activity.

The crackdown involves neighbourhood policing and prevention teams, response officers, the force intelligence bureau, the roads policing unit and drone operators, with patrols focused on areas of highest community concern.

Inspector Celt Thomas said officers had received specialist training before the operation began.

“Ahead of the operation, officers were trained in the use of SelectaDNA, which is a spray containing a quantity of unique DNA,” he said.

“It can be used to tag people, e-bikes, scooters or motorbikes, and can pinpoint offenders to a specific location, date and time.

“If offenders are later identified or brought into custody following an incident, their bikes, clothing or even they themselves can be forensically examined and evidentially linked to an offence.”

During the first operation in Pembroke Dock, an illegal e-bike rider was stopped and arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police, dangerous driving, possession of controlled drugs, drug driving and having no insurance.

The e-bike, which officers said had been heavily modified and was worth between £4,000 and £6,000, was seized and is set to be destroyed.

PC Stuart Gray warned parents to think carefully before buying e-scooters for children this Christmas.

“E-scooters and bikes pose serious safety risks for children, including accidents and injuries,” he said.

“We urge parents to prioritise their child’s wellbeing and consider safer, more appropriate alternatives.”

Inspector Thomas said police would continue to take firm action.

“These riders are causing a huge amount of concern in the area due to their dangerous behaviour and intimidating appearance, and we are committed to resolving the issue,” he said.

“We will continue to target these groups over the coming months and are confident these operations will have positive results.

“We urge members of the community who have information about anyone riding illegally or antisocially to contact us.”

Anyone with information can contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.