After an increase in public complaints about dirt bikes and off-road vehicles racing through Cumberland, RCMP launched a targeted enforcement operation earlier this month.
On November 8th, Comox Valley RCMP deployed multiple units to the village, responding to reports of riders tearing along public roads without licences, insurance, or regard for traffic laws.
The operation included officers from the the RCMP’s Street Crimes Unit, Police Dog Services, Traffic Services, and a helicopter.
Throughout the day, police issued eight verbal warnings, four traffic tickets, impounded four vehicles, and made five arrests. Police said most of the individuals stopped were cooperative, including several youths operating dirt bikes and quads within town limits.
The afternoon escalated when four riders on Bevan Road allegedly refused to stop for police.
The Air 8 helicopter tracked their movements from above, allowing ground units to locate them. All four were arrested and ticketed for a total of 12 offences, including driving without a licence or insurance, and failing to stop for police.
Their dirt bikes were seized and impounded. No injuries were reported during the enforcement effort.
Police say the crackdown was driven directly by community complaints and they’re encouraging residents to continue reporting unsafe off-road riding in the area.
