By Ben Perrin

Copyright birminghammail

Scores of illegally modified e-bikes have been seized by police in Birmingham city centre – as one was found reaching speeds of 68mph. Officers have been stopping riders and issuing them with tickets, while bikes have been sent to be crushed. West Midlands Police said their clampdown on dangerous vehicles started in June after concerns raised by businesses and visitors to the city centre. READ MORE: A34 Stratford Road incident live as emergency services rush to scene READ MORE: Stratford Road fire cause revealed after rush hour closure alert READ MORE: Family of murdered Muslim granddad ‘forgive terrorist killer’ as they learn of death in jail It has seen more than 20 seized so far, including several last Monday, September 22. Police said that while e-bikes themselves are not illegal, many in the city centre have been modified to reach speeds far higher than intended – 68mph in one case. The motor in an e-bike must have a ‘continuous rated power’ output of no more than 250 watts and must not be able to propel the bike when it’s travelling at more than 15.5mph. Sgt Jonathan Humphries, from the city centre policing team, said: “The operation has been a big success, and people are telling us there’s been a real reduction in the number of illegal bikes operating in the city centre. “The message is getting through to people – we won’t tolerate bikes that put the riders themselves and pedestrians at risk. “We’re going to keep up the pressure with more operations in the coming weeks, and they’ll be happening in other parts of Birmingham and the West Midlands as well. “We’ve been working with forces around the country who are keen to learn from the success of our operation, as we know that this is not an issue that’s confined to the West Midlands.” Pete Ash, operations manager at the Central Business Improvement District, said: “Since the launch of the operation, there has been a significant reduction in the number of illegal bikes in and around the city centre. “This is clear evidence that the police response is having a meaningful impact in tackling this issue. “Businesses have responded positively, welcoming the action as it helps to safeguard their reputations while ensuring the safety of staff, customers, and visitors. “While we fully support the legitimate use of electric bikes for deliveries, we cannot and will not tolerate the reckless and illegal use of bikes that endanger the public and undermine business confidence. “We would like to thank Jon, the police, and the wider team from Digbeth for the dedication they have shown in making the city centre a safer and more welcoming place for everyone.”