Watch: Van driver helps armed police catch suspect in Kent
ByJames McCarthy
South East
A van driver who gave a lift to an armed police officer has been commended for helping catch a fleeing suspect.
Footage from the officer's body-worn camera shows the moment on 16 June when the motorist pulled over to help armed police chase down the suspect.
Kent Police said after initially evading arrest, the suspect had run toward Tivoli Road in Margate.
As the driver stopped, he told the officer: "Get in the back."
A van driver pulled over to help an armed officer catch a suspect
The officer got in and with the sliding door still open, he said: "Go, go, go! Cheers buddy. Follow that police officer."
As the driver sped off in the direction of the suspect, the officer continued giving him instructions.
After overtaking the suspect and another officer chasing him on foot, the van pulled over.
Jumping out, the armed officer trained his gun on the suspect and made the arrest.
The driver, who has not been named, had watched as heavily armed police struggled to keep up with the suspect as he fled the scene after an assault on High Street.
When the driver was thanked by the officer, he said: "I am just glad I could be of service. That was quite exhilarating."
'Truly grateful'
Kent Police's Supt Will Lay said: "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."
Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, external, on X, external, on Instagram, external and listen to BBC Radio Kent on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk, external or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.