Balaclava-clad bikers 'drive at speed' through busy shopping centre

Two balaclava-clad bikers drove "at speed" through a Stockton shopping centre.

The incident took place shortly after 5pm on Tuesday when the masked bikers were driven through Wellington Square, while members of the public walked through the site. Officers trying to identify the riders have now released new CCTV images - and is appealing to members of the public to come forward with more information.

Inspector Matthew Reeves said Cleveland Police has noticed an increase in off-road bikers being driven through the shopping centre at high speed. He added that the forces know the same motorbike is being used - and that there are at least five incidents of them being driven around the town centre.

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He explained: "This is incredibly dangerous as members of the public including young children could be hurt or seriously injured. We know off-road bikes are a huge concern for people in our community and I want to reassure the public that there are numerous enquiries and work ongoing in a bid to disrupt this activity.

"We have been conducting numerous operations that include street and car patrols along with the drone in hot spot areas and this as well as other activity behind the scenes will be ongoing. In the meantime, I am encouraging members of the public to please come forward with information – no matter how small – that could lead to the riders being identified or the bikes being seized.

“I am also you to report to police when you see the bikes being driven on garden paths, into garages, sheds or houses or where they are being stored.” Information can also be passed on anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.