Moped thieves are being deliberately rammed by police vehicles as part of a crackdown officers say is having a big impact on two-wheeled crime.

The tactic was revealed as Scotland Yard vowed to target them "at every opportunity", even when they ride dangerously, remove their helmets and disguise themselves.

Police want to change the belief that if suspects take off their helmets or fail to stop they will be allowed to escape.

Image: The controlled crash technique is used by specially trained drivers

Footage from London's Metropolitan Police shows the controlled crash technique used by specially trained drivers, aimed at ending hazardous chases that can pose a threat to the public.

It is hoped the get-tough approach of Operation Venice will deter would-be offenders.


The clampdown comes in response to a spike in moped crime, with criminals using stolen bikes to mount pavements and snatch phones, handbags and other valuables - or as getaway vehicles in other crimes.

Moped gang storm jewellers

Victims are often targeted as they come out of Underground stations in the capital.

Other tactics being used include DNA forensic tagging and the use of tyre-flattening devices.

The tougher approach has led to a reduction in moped crime across London.

Latest figures show from January 2017 to October 2017 there were 19,455 crimes committed using mopeds in London, compared with the same period this year when there were 12,419 offences - a drop of more than 7,000 or 36%.

Caught on camera: Police chase mopeds

The theft of mopeds is also shown to have dropped over the same period from 12,192 cases last year to 8,261 in 2018 - a reduction of 38%.

Commander Amanda Pearson said: "The Met is at the forefront of tackling moped and motorcycle crime and I am pleased to see that we have seen a reduction in offences.

"However, we are not complacent and we will continue to work tirelessly across London to maintain this downward trend.

London moped gang jailed

"Operation Venice can call on all manner of tactics from an experienced investigation team to police helicopters to tackle and arrest offenders.

"There is a perception that if you remove your helmet or fail to stop for police when requested to do so we will not take any further course of action. This is untrue.

"The public quite rightly expects us to intervene to keep London safe. Our highly trained police drivers weigh up the risks and decide upon the most appropriate tactics in those circumstances.

"Offenders on mopeds and motorcycles who attempt to evade the police are making a choice that puts themselves and others at risk.

"So our message is clear: we can, we will and we do target those involved in moped and motorcycle crime at every opportunity."