Melbourne, Australia: A 17-year-old rider has been arrested after police allegedly caught him operating an unregistered electric motorbike while live-streaming his journey through Melbourne’s busy city streets.
The incident unfolded on Monday afternoon when officers noticed a high-powered electric motorcycle travelling through heavy traffic in Southbank without a registration plate.
According to police, the bike was first spotted on City Road at approximately 4 p.m., prompting officers to monitor the rider’s movements.
Police Intervention in Southbank
A short time later, members of the Public Order Response Team (PORT) encountered the rider again on Clarendon Street near the Batman Park tram stop.
Police officers exited their vehicle to speak with the teenager after he reportedly rode up behind them. Authorities allege the rider refused multiple requests to dismount the motorcycle and attempted to leave the scene.
Officers were eventually able to restrain both the rider and the motorcycle, leading to the teenager’s arrest.
Multiple Alleged Offences Investigated
The 17-year-old was taken into custody while police worked to confirm his identity.
Following questioning, investigators said the teenager was interviewed in relation to several alleged offences, including:
- Failing to stop when directed by police
- Riding an unregistered motor vehicle
- Riding without a valid licence
- Careless driving
- Resisting arrest
Police indicated the teenager is expected to be charged by summons at a later date.
Expensive Electric Bike Seized
Authorities impounded the motorcycle involved in the incident, identified as a Stark Future Supermoto 80 electric bike.
The high-performance electric motorcycle is believed to be worth approximately AUD $25,000.
Under Victorian impoundment laws, the bike has been seized for 30 days, with associated impoundment costs totaling nearly AUD $1,000.
Helmet Camera Also Confiscated
Investigators also seized a helmet-mounted camera that was allegedly recording during the ride.
Police believe the teenager may have been live-streaming or filming his journey through Melbourne at the time of the incident. The footage could form part of the ongoing investigation.
Growing Concerns Over Social Media Stunts
The case highlights growing concerns among authorities about riders using social media platforms to broadcast risky behaviour on public roads.
Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly warned that recording or live-streaming dangerous riding activities can distract operators and place both riders and other road users at risk.
Police continue to investigate the incident and are expected to review any footage recovered from the seized camera as part of their inquiries.
