In a remarkable turn of events, a van driver assisted armed police in apprehending a fleeing suspect by offering a lift to an officer during a chase in Kent. Video footage captured the driver pulling over as armed officers pursued a wanted individual in Thanet, urging one officer to “Get in the back.”
The incident unfolded after police were called to a serious assault, leading to a foot chase where the suspect managed to evade officers and ran towards Tivoli Road. The armed officer swiftly entered the black van, with the door left open, guiding the driver through the pursuit.
“Go, go, go! Cheers buddy. Follow that police officer,” the officer directed as the driver accelerated towards the suspect, following instructions and positioning ahead of the fleeing individual. The armed officer then swiftly exited the van, drew his weapon, and successfully apprehended the suspect.
The driver, who remains unidentified, witnessed the arrest and received gratitude from officers with a handshake for his assistance. Expressing his experience, the driver stated, “I am just glad I could be of service. That was quite exhilarating.”
Armed Policing Superintendent Will Lay commended the driver’s quick and selfless actions, highlighting that the successful arrest wouldn’t have been possible without the public-spirited driver. The superintendent emphasized the driver’s vital role in ensuring community safety and expressed gratitude for his valuable assistance.