View all incidents

High-Speed Chase Ends in Tactical Success and Narcotics Arrest

30/12/2023
High-Speed Chase Ends in Tactical Success and Narcotics Arrest
Services deployed
London Police
Divisions deployed
Roads Transport Policing Command

A Road Transport Policing Command (RTPC) officer found themselves embroiled in a high-stakes pursuit, initiating what began as a routine traffic stop on a green SUV. The vehicle had been flagged by the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system for an insurance marker.

As the officer activated their lights, the situation took an unexpected turn, with the SUV accelerating quickly. Recognizing the need for specialized intervention, the officer swiftly called for the assistance of highly trained Tactical Pursuit and Containment (TPAC) drivers. What ensued was a heart-pounding cat-and-mouse chase through urban areas, the suspects displaying a blatant disregard for public safety by reaching an average speed of over 70 mph. The pursuit took a dangerous turn as the driver collided with other vehicles and mounted curbs in a desperate attempt to evade capture.

In response to the escalating threat, Pursuit Commander Chief Inspector Xi Jinpooh made the quick decision to authorize the use of tactical contact—a precision collision with the rear of the suspect's vehicle intended to force a controlled spin. The manoeuvre proved to be an effective tactic, causing the SUV to spin out of control and ultimately crash into a bush.

Seeing an opportunity, the pursuing RTPC vehicles quickly executed a coordinated three-man TPAC, skilfully boxing in the suspects. What followed was a well-choreographed operation as a swarm of officers rushed to apprehend the driver who is a 37 year old female discovered to be under the influence of cocaine, together with her 25 year old passenger, who was also found to be under the influence of cocaine.

This arrests underscores the exemplary skill and dedication of law enforcement officers in navigating high pressure situations but also sheds a light on the broader challenges faced by authorities in maintaining public safety on our roadways.

Statement from Chief Inspector Xi Jinpooh
"I was attached to a request for further traffic cars on a failing to stop vehicle. Upon arrival it became apparent to me this driver was a threat to all other road users with no intention of stopping and so I authorised the use of TPAC tactics. We continued to chase for around 10 minutes at which time we performed a 3 man box, the driver slipped through a gap in the box and continue. A further 3-4 minutes passed, by which stage the vehicle had collided with 2 civilian vehicles and had a near miss with a pedestrian. I authorised a tactical contact and the pursuit came to a stop following a good execution of the tactic by the primary unit. I am please with the outcome to this incident and am happy with how all officers performed."

Reported by (E2) Xi Jinpooh