Balaclava boys on electric bikes: How to tackle the problem?

Then there are electric dirt bikes from manufacturers such as Sur-Ron which look like mountain bikes but are capable of about 50mph – and 70mph or more if modified.

Unlike legal e-bikes they require a licence and insurance to be used in public spaces or on roads.

E-scooters are also popular – despite it currently being illegal to ride them on public roads or pavements except in certain rental zones.

What they all have in common is that they are expensive, ranging from a few hundred to several thousands of pounds, and modifications can cost hundreds of pounds more on top.

Seizing and destroying them represents a significant penalty.

A new law and rules introduced this summer gave police in England and Wales greater powers to seize illegal vehicles, and without the need for a formal warning if they are being used in an anti-social manner.

They can also now be crushed within 48 hours.

In Scotland, ministers say they are in favour of increasing police seizure powers, although they point out bikes can already be seized under certain circumstances.