The number of drivers who fail to stop for police officers when required has increased, according to the Bermuda Police Service.

A spokesman said three people were arrested for speeding away from and avoiding police while riding their bikes last Thursday.

He added: “These incidents, which are dangerous to all involved, are of great concern.

“Subjects later arrested in relation to these matters will appear before the courts in due time.”

Martin Weekes, the assistant commissioner, said these drivers “pose a significant threat to the safety and wellbeing of not only those involved in the situation, but also to other motorists as well as members of the public”.

Officers are trained to minimise the threats drivers present to other road users, the spokesman added.

He explained: “This means officers will, at times, end a pursuit if it is determined that level of risk is out of proportion to the offence committed.”

The Road Traffic Act 1947 says: “The driver of a vehicle on any road shall, when requested to do so by a police officer or when a police officer signals to him to do so, immediately bring the vehicle to a stop and keep it stationary until the police officer permits him to proceed.

“A police officer may give a signal to stop a vehicle by raising his hand or by waving from side to side a red light. Any person who fails to comply with any such request or signal commits an offence against this Act.”

Drivers found guilty of the offence can be fined $300, disqualified from driving for up to three months and receive five demerit points on their licence.