“Stay away or I will f***ing stab you” man arrested by our vehicle interceptors this morning

Yesterday, a delivery driver reported that his car had been stolen whilst he was working in Stockport and that the offenders travelled towards South Manchester.

This morning, officers from our Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit deployed to Wythenshawe and put their skills to good use in arresting the suspect.

Whilst patrolling the area, vital information was reported to the police from a member of the public who had spotted a man altering the registration plates on a car that matched the description of the delivery drivers car from yesterday.

Within a matter of minutes, our officers were on the scene and sighted the stolen vehicle as it was driving along Shadowmoss Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester.

The stolen car failed to stop for the officers and a police pursuit was authorised.  After a short time, the suspect crashed the car and attempted to make off on foot.

Despite being single crewed with no immediate back up, and intelligence suggesting the suspect was armed with a large knife, the pursuing TVIU officer chased the suspect on foot.

During the foot chase it's believed that the suspect threatened to assault our officer, but after a short struggle, the officer managed to safely detain him.

A 41-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of threats to kill a police officer, possession of a bladed article, theft of motor vehicle, dangerous driving, driving whilst disqualified, and failing to stop for police. He remains in police custody for questioning. 

Inspector Danny Kabal of GMP's Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit, said: "Like most days, officers start their shift not knowing what they will deal with. It’s a reminder of the dangers our officers face day and night whilst on duty. Thankfully, my officer was not injured - but it could have been a very different outcome.

“Police officers, especially those in the TVIU, have to manage dangerous incidents on a daily basis when tackling crime which is why they are well trained and equipped to minimise risk, deal with offenders effectively and keep the public safe."

“I would like to thank the public for their support in supplying information to the police and this incident clearly demonstrates that GMP we will act swiftly to keep our communities safe from those who intend on causing harm."