Bodycam footage has captured the moment a quick-thinking van driver helped armed police catch a fleeing suspect by giving an officer a lift during a dramatic foot chase in Thanet, Kent.
How the chase unfolded
The incident began after police responded to reports of a serious assault. The suspect managed to evade officers and fled on foot towards Tivoli Road. Armed officers pursued the man, but he was close to escaping.
As the chase progressed, a black van driver pulled over and told one officer: "Get in the back." The armed officer jumped into the rear of the van, leaving the sliding door open as he directed the driver through the pursuit.
"Go, go, go! Cheers buddy. Follow that police officer," the officer can be heard saying on the footage.
Arrest and gratitude
The driver accelerated after the fleeing suspect, following instructions from the officer before pulling up ahead of the man. The armed officer then leapt from the van, drew his weapon, and arrested the suspect.
The driver, who has not been identified, watched the arrest unfold and later received a handshake from officers in thanks. He said: "I am just glad I could be of service. That was quite exhilarating."
Police praise
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."
He added: "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."
