In a daring and brazen act, a joyrider seized control of a police car in Kirkholt, Rochdale, Greater Manchester, while an officer was in pursuit of a suspect. The incident, captured on video and circulated online, showcases the audacious prankster manoeuvring the unoccupied BMW 4×4 along residential streets.
The footage, uploaded on Sunday, depicts the stolen police car, its blue lights flashing, being recklessly reversed along a pavement before careening into a side street. Onlookers watch in disbelief as the vehicle bounces off the curb and onto the road, with laughter echoing in the background.
Greater Manchester Police swiftly responded to the incident, confirming on Monday that a suspect had been identified, and the stolen car recovered. According to the police statement, an officer had momentarily left the vehicle unattended to apprehend a 28-year-old alleged dangerous driver, who had sought refuge in a nearby shop.
A spokesperson for the force expressed concern over the reckless behaviour captured in the video, emphasizing that the individual’s actions were unacceptable. The statement noted the bravery of the officer involved in detaining the suspect and assured that appropriate measures would be taken against the perpetrator of the joyriding incident.
Following the recovery of the police car near the scene, authorities proceeded to question the 28-year-old man on multiple charges, including dangerous driving, failure to stop for police, and driving without a license or insurance. Additionally, the suspect faces allegations of possessing a bladed article, assaulting an emergency worker, criminal damage, and breaching a court order.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Police officers in maintaining public safety and upholding the law. Greater Manchester Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the community and urged the public to cooperate with authorities in combating such reckless behaviour.
As investigations continue, authorities are working diligently to bring those responsible to justice and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
