A van driver who gave an impromptu lift to armed officers chasing a suspect in Margate has been praised by officers.
Kent Police units were attending a property in the High Street shortly after midday on Tuesday 16 June, following reports of a serious assault in the area. When officers arrived, a suspect managed to evade officers and fled the scene on foot, running towards Tivoli Road.
During the chase, a passing motorist stopped to help and told a pursuing armed officer to get in the back of his van. With the officer in the back of the vehicle, they were able to catch up with the fleeing suspect and arrest him soon afterwards.
The member of the public has since been thanked for his actions and has been recommended for a commendation by the force.
Armed Policing Superintendent Will Lay said: “A violent offender who was being relentlessly pursued, and was seeking to evade capture, came close to losing patrols in a nearby park. However, our armed officers remained committed.
“Thanks to the quick and selfless actions of this responsible and public-spirited driver, officers were able to apprehend the dangerous individual. The successful arrest may not have been possible without the member of the public and his vehicle.
“He should feel proud of his contribution to keeping his community safe, and we are truly grateful for his assistance.”
Brilliant 👏
Well done what a star
What a great guy ! . Setting a good example.Nice to see someone helping the police in a difficult and dangerous situation instead of trashing the police as many seem to do this day and age ! He certainly deserves a medal 🥇.
Brilliant and heroic.Give him a medal and make sure sure the criminal isnt given tea and biscuits and a slap on the wrist.
Good man.
A fantastic thing to do , well done that man and lovely to see the police officer go back and shake hands and thank him , more people should help our police in the course of keeping us all safe .