Durham Police have issued a warning to parents after officers seized two dangerous vehicles being ridden by children under the age of 10 without helmets.
Officers from the force seized an electric scooter capable of reaching speeds of 28mph.
They also seized a mini moto that could reach 15mph after discovering they were being ridden by children under the age of 10 in Chester-le-Street.
The seized e-scooter (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)
Neither child was wearing a helmet while riding the vehicles, prompting Durham Police to issue a stark warning to parents about the dangers involved.
Officers have urged families to make sure they know what their children are riding and where they are using the vehicles, stressing that e-scooters and mini motos are "not toys".
The force shared details of the incident in a social media post, highlighting the risks posed to young riders and other members of the public.
With electric scooters becoming increasingly popular, police are reminding people that privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes or other public spaces.
They can only be ridden on private land with the landowner's permission.
Durham Police said: "Parents and guardians: Please ensure you know what your children are riding and where they are using it.
"These vehicles are not toys, and it is important to understand the potential consequences of riding them illegally."
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The force warned that using such vehicles illegally could result in fines, penalty points and the seizure of the vehicle.
Officers also stressed that e-scooters and mini motos can pose a serious risk to pedestrians and other members of the public, as well as those riding them.
Durham Police added: "Police will continue to take action against the illegal use of these vehicles to help keep our roads and communities safe."