The opinion piece discusses growing concerns in Canberra about groups of young people using electric bikes and small motorbikes to cause disruption in suburban areas.

The author describes incidents where youths, sometimes referred to as “kiddy bikie gangs” or “Kiddy Comancheros”, have been seen riding through public spaces, damaging sporting fields, and disrupting community events.

Examples include reported turf damage at Hawker Playing Fields and an incident in Bonython where a large group of youths rode through an active sports game and allegedly stole corner flags.Similar disruptive behaviour has also been noted in other regions, including interference with a historical walking tour in Wollongong.The article highlights growing frustration among residents and reflects on broader concerns about safety perceptions in the ACT.

ACT police have condemned the behaviour as unacceptable and indicated they will target illegal e-motorbikes, although the exact enforcement measures remain unclear.

The author references public debate about whether stronger deterrents, including vehicle confiscation or destruction, should be used to discourage such activity.A key theme in the commentary is the tension between perception and reality.On one hand, police suggest that media coverage and social media may be amplifying fears about youth crime.

On the other, community sentiment expressed in comments reflects concern about young teenagers who may believe they are beyond legal consequences, particularly given laws around criminal responsibility.

The piece also raises questions about parental supervision and accountability, suggesting that some readers believe families should play a stronger role in addressing behaviour.Finally, the article connects these incidents to broader survey findings showing declining public confidence in safety and policing in Canberra.

It concludes by highlighting the complexity of addressing youth behaviour, community expectations, and enforcement in a changing technological and social environment.