A quick-thinking van driver from east Kent has been praised after giving an impromptu lift to armed officers chasing a suspect through the streets of Thanet.
Kent Police units had attended a property in the High Street, Margate shortly after midday on Tuesday 16 June 2026, following reports of a serious assault in the area. Upon the arrival of the emergency services, a suspect managed to evade officers and fled the scene on foot, running towards Tivoli Road.
During the subsequent foot chase, a passing motorist stopped to help and urged a pursuing armed officer to jump into the back of his van. With the officer safely inside the vehicle, the driver was able to catch up with the fleeing suspect, allowing police to make an arrest shortly afterwards. The helpful member of the public has since been thanked for his swift actions and has been recommended for a formal commendation by the force.
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.’
See an accompanying video https://youtu.be/UEX9RuA7yOc