Van driver gives armed police a lift to help catch suspect during dramatic chase

Van driver gives armed police a lift to help catch suspect during dramatic chase Bodycam footage shows the moment a quick thinking van driver helped armed police catch a fleeing suspect by giving an officer a lift during a dramatic chase in Kent. This is the dramatic moment a van driver helped armed police catch a fleeing suspect by giving an officer a lift during a foot chase through Kent. Bodycam footage shows the motorist pulling over as armed officers pursued a wanted man in Thanet before telling one officer: "Get in the back." The incident unfolded after police responded to reports of a serious assault where the suspect managed to evade officers and fled on foot towards Tivoli Road. The armed officer jumped into the rear of the black 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. 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 before receiving a handshake from officers in thanks for his assistance. He later said: "I am just glad I could be of service. That was quite exhilarating." 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. "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."