Appeal to Trace "Gator" after Suspected Stolen Quad Bikes Seized in South Bank
Main article content
Suspected stolen quad bikes and other items were seized by police using drone technology this weekend.
Under ‘Not on our Streets’, Cleveland Police’s force‑wide initiative targeting dangerous and illegal off‑road bikes, officers from neighbourhood policing teams including Eston, roads policing, drone units and specialist operations have been carrying out targeted patrols, seizing bikes, identifying riders and acting on intelligence from the public.
The operation focuses on targeting areas where bikes are ridden illegally, stored, repaired, or supplied.
On Sunday 7th June, officers used drone technology to track two suspected stolen quad bikes, power tools, a trailer and generator to an address on Bevanlee Road, South Bank. They also spotted a vehicle known as a “gator” was also spotted – but this couldn’t be located. Officers are now appealing for anyone with information regarding this to come forward. The gator is shown in the video footage below being ridden illegally in the South Bank area.
A 20-year-old man was arrested at a property on suspicion of burglary, and an investigation is now ongoing with colleagues from North Yorkshire Police. He has been bailed whilst the investigation continues.
Sergeant Benson, leading part of the operation, said: “This operation is about protecting communities. These bikes are not toys — they are often linked to wider criminality, antisocial behaviour and serious risk to the public. Every report helps us take another illegal bike off the road.
“Please report what you see. If you’re riding illegally, storing these bikes, or supplying them — we’re coming for you. We won’t tolerate illegal bikes – not on our streets.”
Cleveland Police is urging the public to continue providing information to help officers identify suspects and remove dangerous bikes from the streets. Members of the public can report information to us regarding:
- Locations of illegal riding — parks, fields, estates, alleyways, cycle paths
- Storage sites — sheds, gardens, garages, abandoned buildings
- Descriptions — bike colours, rider clothing, nicknames, patterns or times
- Footage or images — where safe and lawful to obtain
All information submitted is used to plan enforcement activity, identify offenders, and support prosecutions.
Please report on 101 or use the Cleveland Police website: www.cleveland.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or go to www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Footage and images can also be submitted through the COPA app:
For Apple users: COPA App - App Store
For Android users: COPA - Cleveland Policing App – Apps on Google Play
Cleveland Police will continue to publish updates on seizures, arrests and hotspot activity as the operation progresses. #NotonourStreets