Officers sign-post suspected burglar to custody following pursuit

Whist Greater Manchester was asleep, Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit (TVIU) officers were out across the region and embarked upon what would soon be a successful night shift, resulting in an arrest in the early hours of the morning.

At around 2.15am this morning (Thursday 16 February 2024), officers in TVIU witnessed a vehicle travelling dangerously at high speeds on Bury New Road, Prestwich.

Before officers were able to approach the vehicle, it failed to stop and the Kia Sportage sped off from police.

A short pursuit took place before the occupants abandoned the car and attempted to run away on foot. After a lengthy foot chase, a man in his 50s was quickly arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, having no insurance and failing to stop for police.

Upon searching the car, the officers discovered a hammer and the man was further arrested on suspicion of possession on an offensive weapon. He remains in custody for questioning.

Inspector Danny Kabal of GMP’s Specialist Operations Unit, said: “This result showcases to the public that officers from the Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit are patrolling the streets of Greater Manchester day and night to protect our communities and keep people safe.

“When the unit are not engaged with planned deployments or responding to serious criminality, officers from TVIU will proactively seek those responsible for causing harm within our communities.

“This is a great example of how the unit are able to utilise their specialist training to pursue criminals and bring them into custody.

“The public would rightly expect us to lock-up anyone who thinks it is acceptable to carry a weapon or drive dangerously in a bid to escape, and this is exactly what we will continue to do.”