In a striking display of public cooperation, a van driver stopped to assist armed police officers in the pursuit of a suspect on a residential street in Thanet on Tuesday, June 16. The incident occurred around 12:49 p.m. as officers were responding to a report of a serious assault in Margate.

The pursuit was captured on body-worn video by the officers, who were armed with automatic rifles. As the suspect fled on foot down a hill, a passing van driver pulled over and offered one of the officers a ride, instructing him to "Get in the back."

With the officer inside, the van accelerated to catch up to the fleeing suspect. Within approximately 20 seconds, the officer disembarked from the moving van, instructed the driver to stop, and immediately raised his rifle. He then ordered the suspect to stop and place his hands on his head.

Kent Police shared footage of the event, highlighting the driver's assistance. The body-worn camera footage shows the officer shouting, "Armed police! Stay where you are!" and later, "Stop there! Don't move! Put your hands on your head!"

This image shows the armed officer after he had jumped out of the van, moments before aiming his G36C automatic rifle at the suspect and arresting him

Later, in a conversation recorded on camera, the officer expressed his gratitude to the van driver, saying, "Cheers for your help." The driver responded, "No problem, I'm just glad I could be of service," and the two men shook hands. The driver described the experience as "quite exhilarating."

Kent Police commended the driver's actions in an online post, noting that "praise has been heaped on a van driver who gave an impromptu lift to armed officers chasing a suspect in Thanet."

A spokesperson for the force confirmed that officers were at a property on the high street around midday on June 16 in response to reports of a serious assault. The suspect evaded officers on foot and ran toward Tivoli Road. The intervention of the van driver proved crucial in apprehending the individual.

Three armed police officers are pictured pursuing a suspect (circled in red) after receiving reports of a serious assault in Margate, Kent, on June 16

Armed Policing Superintendent Will Lay stated that the successful arrest might not have been possible without the public member's assistance. "Thanks to the quick and selfless actions of this responsible and public-spirited driver, officers were able to apprehend the dangerous individual," Lay said. "He should feel proud of his contribution to keeping his community safe, and we are truly grateful for his assistance."

The member of the public has been recommended for a commendation by the force for his actions.