Fast-acting cops tracked down three suspected catalytic converter thieves after attending reports of an attempted theft.
Officers attended after a report of masked men trying to steal a catalytic converter from a vehicle in the Radford area of Nottingham shortly before 8.15pm yesterday (Wednesday 9 November 2022).
They fled in a car after they were disturbed but the vehicle was soon spotted following a search of the area and a brief police pursuit ensued.
A few minutes later the suspects got out of the car in the Radford Road area and ran off.
One of the suspects was arrested while another waded into the River Leen in an attempt to evade capture but he was dragged out of the water and detained.
Another was tracked down and arrested after a police community support officer spotted fresh wet footprints following a search. A garden was subsequently searched where the suspect was found hiding.
A 30-year-old man is being questioned on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle, dangerous driving and failing to stop.
A 27-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of vehicle interference and failing to stop and a 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, theft from a motor vehicle, dangerous driving and failing to stop.
All three remain in custody while inquiries continue.
Detective Inspector Jon Kerry, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:
“This was a great bit of work by the officers involved and also by the victim of the attempted catalytic converter theft who quickly passed on information to the police.
“By acting so quickly on the information received we were able to find the suspects’ vehicle and follow it before successfully hunting them down after they tried to get away on foot.
“It’s another great example of our determination to pursue and catch suspects and to seek justice for victims of crime.
“Unfortunately catalytic converters remain in high demand due to the value of precious metals they contain and they can be taken from vehicles very quickly.
“As we have repeatedly said, we do rely on the public to help us combat this crime type and we continue to urge people to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to us. As this case makes clear, when we receive that information we will act quickly on it.”
If you see any suspicious activity in your area please report it immediately by calling Nottinghamshire Police on 101. If an incident is in progress call 999.
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