THE growing misuse of high-powered e-bikes has emerged as a major safety concern for Capalaba, prompting local businesses and police to unite in a community safety meeting to tackle the issue head-on.
The open forum brought together police, business owners, and community representatives to discuss local crime trends and the mounting dangers linked to illegally modified e-bikes.
Police said many e-bikes ridden in the area had been altered to exceed the 250-watt power limit, meaning they should legally be treated as motorbikes – requiring registration, licensing and insurance.
Officers said many riders, particularly young people and their parents, were either unaware of or ignoring these rules, creating serious safety and legal risks.
Enforcement remains difficult, with strict police pursuit policies restricting responses in the interest of public safety.
Attendees called for stronger legislation, increased public education, and youth engagement initiatives to curb unsafe riding and prevent future accidents.
Police confirmed that new actions and plans were being developed to address the issue.
While e-bike safety dominated much of the discussion, police also presented the latest year-to-date statistics for the Capalaba Division.
The figures showed encouraging progress, including a 24 per cent drop in premises entered with intent, a 34 per cent fall in burglaries of dwellings, and a 17 per cent decline in unlawful entries of motor vehicles, including number plate thefts.
However, unlawful use of motor vehicles has risen by 21 per cent.
Injury traffic crashes are down by more than 16 per cent, but officers noted that broader social factors and risky behaviour continue to influence community safety.
Police also shared simple but effective crime prevention measures for local businesses – including keeping premises well lit, securing boundaries, restricting access to vulnerable areas, and installing CCTV and signage.
Marking property and using layered locking systems were also recommended to deter theft and vandalism.
Councillor Jason Colley, who organised the meeting, praised the community’s proactive approach.
“Local businesses are the eyes and ears of our industrial precinct,” Cr Colley said.
“By staying connected and sharing information, we can make Capalaba a safer and stronger place to live and work.”
