A Birmingham delivery cyclist using a council-funded scheme e-bike saw the legally registered bike seized and crushed by police in the course of an inspection.

Officers acted after citing a lack of current insurance paperwork, even though the rider had already passed a previous valid test for the same documents.

The rider’s bike was part of a city-supported hire program, yet it was destroyed in what the cyclist described as a "bogus" inspection.

Police later admitted the seizure was an error due to incorrect paperwork being shown on the day.

The incident has sparked concerns for local delivery workers about the security of council‑run e‑bike schemes.

Advocacy groups have called for clearer guidelines plus better communication to avoid similar incidents.

The council has said it will review its procedures and work with police to ensure future inspections are proper.

Meanwhile, the cyclist faces the loss of a essential vehicle.