This is the dramatic moment a police motorcycle rider used tactical contact to knock a suspect off his bike during a high-speed chase through Leeds city centre. The incident, which unfolded on Saturday, February 1, involved a gang of riders engaging in a dangerous 'ride-out', ignoring traffic signals and weaving recklessly between vehicles.
Aerial Surveillance Tracks Reckless Gang
The National Police Air Service (NPAS) first spotted the group of yobs from an aerial position. Footage from the helicopter shows the riders blatantly running red lights, speeding through junctions, and swerving between cars on busy roads. Upon identifying the anti-social and potentially criminal behaviour, a squad of officers on motorbikes was immediately dispatched to intercept the group.
Bodycam Captures Intense Pursuit
Body-worn camera footage from one officer captures the intense chase of a 27-year-old man, believed to be a ringleader of the ride-out. The pursuit wound through Chapelton, near the centre of Leeds, with the suspect on a red motorbike actively resisting arrest.
The officer trailed the rider across a busy dual carriageway and down a narrow lane before finally closing the gap in a side street. It was here that the policeman employed what West Yorkshire Police describe as 'tactical contact'—deliberately ramming his police bike into the suspect's motorcycle to bring the dangerous chase to a halt.
Foot Chase and Arrest
Even after being knocked from his vehicle, the suspect continued his mission to evade capture, fleeing on foot. The determined officer gave chase and successfully apprehended the man a short time later. The motorbike rider was arrested on suspicion of multiple driving offences, including dangerous driving, and was subsequently released on bail pending further investigation.
Police Commitment to Tackling Anti-Social Riding
Chief Inspector James Farrar, head of the Roads Policing Unit, commented on the incident, stating: 'We know that the anti-social and criminal use of off-road bikes is a big concern in our communities and that the public support us in taking firm action to tackle it.'
He emphasised that 'Dealing with such antisocial behaviour and denying criminals the use of the road remains one of our top priorities and it's why we've invested in the specialist equipment to allow us the capability to do so.' This specialist equipment includes the NPAS helicopter and the training for tactical contact manoeuvres.
Chief Inspector Farrar also linked the action to broader road safety goals: 'It also forms part of our Vision Zero ambitions to reduce the numbers of serious and fatal injury collisions on our roads.' He issued a clear warning to those considering similar actions: 'With the support of NPAS there is nowhere to hide and, as this incident shows, we will take robust action to stop these vehicles where it is safe and proportionate to do so.'
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges police face with illegal ride-outs and the proactive measures being taken to ensure public safety on the streets of Leeds.
