Trying to stop people disposing of household waste
Douglas Council has admitted to removing litter bins from around the capital.
It comes after a new fortnightly bin collection was introduced in October.
The new policy had been widely criticised by members of the public.
Councillor Falk Horning said: "Where there is evidence that pedestrian litter bins are being used by households to dispose of their rubbish, the bin is temporarily removed to limit the behaviour.
"This was a phenomenon ahead of the change in waste service and every effort is made to identify the household responsible."
He made the statement at the council's public meeting this month.

Manxman repairs expected to exceed £2.5m
Island's youngest ever MHK says he has 'a lot to prove'
"Clearly I'm a candidate" for chief minister - Chris Thomas