Over 160 e-bikes, e-scooters seized during Garda searches in Dublin

Gardaí seized a significant number of e-bikes and e-scooters, along with other vehicles and suspected contraband, during a high-impact operation in Dublin targeting criminal activity.

In an operation under 'Operation Meacán' on August 5, 2026, law enforcement confiscated 166 e-bikes and e-scooters. The seizures also included seven e-dirt bikes, four scramblers, and three quad bikes. During the 96 searches conducted, authorities discovered approximately €158,000 worth of suspected drugs, €25,820 in cash, and a sawn-off shotgun with ammunition.

As a result of the operation, five individuals were arrested. Four of them have been charged and are awaiting court appearances, while a fifth person arrested on a bench warrant has already appeared in court. The targeted use of electric vehicles in criminal activities was the focus of this enforcement action.

With new regulations for electric vehicles set to take effect later this month, gardaí are collaborating with community groups. These initiatives aim to help riders understand the upcoming rules and ensure their vehicles comply with road legality requirements. Superintendent Liam Geraghty previously stated that these patrols are not intended to penalize legitimate users of electric vehicles.

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enforcement patrols are not about "trying to demonise people who want to use them officially".