Police have concluded an operation in Southbank targeting cyclists, electric bike and scooter riders in an effort to improve pedestrian safety in the area.
Over 100 offences were identified as a result of Operation River Run, which included 82 bicycle related offences, and 21 e-scooter related offences.
Results from Operation Rive Run:
• 45 charged on summons for travelling over 23km/h while riding a bike or a scooter
• 33 issued with infringements for not wearing a helmet while riding a bike or a scooter
• 9 issued with infringements for operating an unregistered motor vehicle (8 scooters and 1 skateboard)
• 7 issued with infringements for using a mobile phone while riding a bike or a scooter
Other offences include failing to dismount and fail to have proper control.
Police also issued over 500 warnings to cyclists and scooter riders as part of the educational phase of the operation, with over 1,400 speed checks conducted in total.
As part of the operation, police also processed seven people for crime related offending. Offences included outstanding warrants for criminal damage and armed robbery, as well as one person for carrying a controlled weapon, resisting arrest and committing an indictable offence while on bail.
Police will continue to conduct regular patrols and activities along Southbank to ensure the space remains safe for all path users.
Quotes attributable to Southbank Acting Senior Sergeant Brett Sidebottom
"We had the opportunity to engage with many people as part of this operation - commuters and local residents who use a range of transport methods including cycling, scooters and walking."
"We know the majority of people using the space are trying to do so safely, however there were a small amount of people blatantly doing the wrong thing who were penalised or now face charges to be heard at court.
"Given the overwhelming and positive feedback we received as part of the operation we will continue to conduct regular patrols and activities in the area to ensure both pedestrians and cyclists remain safe."
