Gardaí have seized an electric scrambler motorbike being driven by a 10-year-old child on a public road in Dublin, as part of ongoing operations targeting the dangerous and illegal use of scramblers and similar vehicles.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when members of the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) East Roads Policing Unit were on patrol and observed the e-scrambler crossing a public road. Gardaí intervened and seized the vehicle immediately.
In a statement shared on social media, Gardaí confirmed the seizure and highlighted the continued focus on tackling the misuse of scramblers and e-bikes in the capital.
“An e-scrambler motorbike has been seized as part of proactive operations by the Dublin Metropolitan Region East Roads Policing Unit,” Gardaí said. “The bike was being driven at the time on a public road by a 10-year-old.”
Authorities warned that they have the power to seize scramblers being driven dangerously anywhere, including on off-road locations such as parks or green areas. The Government is also planning to introduce a total ban on scrambler use in public places, alongside stronger enforcement powers for An Garda Síochána to address ongoing safety concerns.
The seizure comes amid wider enforcement activity across the city. Gardaí reported that a further patrol by Kevin Street Gardaí resulted in 10 e-scooters and six cars being seized, while 33 fixed charge notices were issued for various road traffic offences.
Under Irish law, scramblers are treated the same as other motor vehicles if they are used on public roads. This means riders must meet a range of legal requirements before operating one.
To legally drive a scrambler on a public road, riders must:
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Register the vehicle
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Display number plates
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Ensure the bike has lights and reflectors
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Hold valid motor tax and insurance
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Possess a valid driving licence
Safety organisations have also stressed that scramblers are not suitable for young children. According to Citizens Information, “Scramblers are not toys.” The misuse of these powerful bikes can lead to serious injuries and, in some cases, fatalities.
Parents are advised not to purchase scramblers for children under the age of 16, and any bike used should match the rider’s age, size, and ability. Safety experts also emphasise that helmets are legally required in public places and strongly recommended even when riding on private property.
Protective clothing such as boots, gloves, and body armour is also recommended, along with taking weather conditions and terrain into account before riding.
Authorities continue to remind riders and parents that those operating scramblers are responsible not only for their own safety but also for the safety of others in the community.
