TikTok Video Shows Local Kids Stealing Cop Car During Police Arrest in Manchester
In a startling incident captured and shared on TikTok, a police vehicle was commandeered by an individual while an officer was making an arrest in Kirkholt, Rochdale. The video, which quickly went viral, showcases a BMW 4×4 in Greater Manchester Police livery being driven recklessly along a pavement, before careening into a side street and rebounding off the curb, share Daily Record.
The clip, posted on Sunday, April 14, 2024, was dramatically captioned “Local kids steal a police car,” capturing the audacious moment. According to the Manchester Evening News, the vehicle was seen reversing at high speed, maneuvering erratically back onto the road in a display that left online viewers both shocked and concerned.
Greater Manchester Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident, which unfolded while an officer was detaining a 28-year-old man following a pursuit. The arrest took place in a nearby shop and involved charges of dangerous driving, failing to stop, and driving without a license or insurance, among other offenses, by Daily Mail.
A spokesperson for the police expressed dismay over the reckless endangerment caused by the unauthorized use of the police vehicle. “This happened after an officer left the car to bravely detain a suspect. Someone decided to get into the car and behave in this unacceptable manner. We now believe we have identified them for further action,” they stated.
The stolen police car was quickly recovered near the scene of the initial arrest. The individual involved in the original pursuit was also arrested on additional charges, including possession of a bladed article, assault of an emergency worker, criminal damage, and breaching a court order. They remain in custody and are currently under questioning.
This incident has prompted a broader discussion about the security measures surrounding police vehicles, especially during active duty calls. As the investigation continues, Greater Manchester Police are reviewing protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future, ensuring the safety of both the officers and the public.
The viral nature of the video has also highlighted the role of social media in rapidly spreading footage of criminal activities, raising questions about the impact of such visibility on public safety and criminal behavior.