Three arrested in warrants linked to Huyton collision and Operation Gears crackdown

Early morning warrants in Huyton and Litherland today (Friday 18 July 2025) have resulted in the arrest of three men following a road traffic collision in Huyton.

The warrants are part of an investigation into a collision on Monday 16 June and follow the launch of Operation Gears - a targeted campaign to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour linked to the illegal use of two-wheeled vehicles, including electric motorcycles, e-scooters and non-compliant electric bikes. 

The collision on Princess Drive involved a pedal cyclist and a man riding a black Sur-ron electric bike. The rider left the scene, heading towards Liverpool Road. The cyclist was taken to hospital, where he remains in a stable condition and is continuing his recovery.

Two of the warrants were executed in Huyton, where a 29-year-old man – on bail in connection to the collision and suspected of causing serious injury by dangerous driving – was further arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice.

A 56-year-old man from Huyton was also arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, assisting an offender and possession of a controlled Class B drug.

A third warrant was executed in Litherland, where a 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, assisting an offender, possession of criminal property, and handling stolen goods.

All three men remain in police custody.

A subsequent search at a storage facility in Bootle led to the seizure of three electric motorcycles and an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC), which will now undergo forensic examination.

Detective Sergeant Simon Duffy said: “This was a serious collision that left a man in hospital, and we understand the concern it has caused in the community.

“The warrants executed and subsequent arrests demonstrate our commitment to taking robust action against those who put others at risk on Merseyside’s roads. We will continue working tirelessly to make our streets safer for everyone.

“Through Operation Gears, Merseyside Police is taking firm and proactive action, seizing illegal bikes, arresting offenders, and increasing patrols in key areas to disrupt criminals and keep our communities safe.”

Since 1 January 2025, Merseyside Police has seized more than 500 unregistered vehicles (e-bikes, e-scooters, and scramblers) used without insurance or a valid licence. Many were also linked to serious offences and road traffic collisions.

Detective Sergeant Simon Duffy added: “The support of the public is a vital part of our efforts to stop criminals in their tracks and stop the illegal and anti-social use of electric bikes. I encourage anyone with any information, including where vehicles are being stored, to please contact us, as we understand the harm it can cause in our communities.”

Anyone with information on the incident should contact Merseyside Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0151 777 5747 quoting incident reference 25000494295. Alternatively contact the social media desk via X @MerPolCC or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’. You can also report information via our website: https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/.

If you see any illegal use of e-bikes, e-scooters, or electric motorcycles, please report it to us as soon as possible. We’re committed to working with you to make your community safer - Operation Gears | Merseyside Police