A hungry Uber Eats customer triggered an unexpected police response after dialling 999 to complain about missing chicken wings from their food order, in what authorities are calling a "baffling" misuse of emergency services.
The incident, which has left both police and the public shaking their heads, occurred when the frustrated diner decided their culinary disappointment warranted an emergency call to police rather than contacting the food delivery company directly.
Police Response to Chicken Wing Crisis
Thames Valley Police confirmed they received the unusual emergency call and were forced to dispatch officers to investigate what they initially believed might be a genuine emergency. Upon arrival, officers discovered the real nature of the complaint: a missing portion of chicken wings from a food delivery order.
A police spokesperson expressed concern about the inappropriate use of emergency services, stating: "Please only call 999 when someone is in immediate danger, a crime is in progress, or a suspect is nearby. For missing chicken wings, contact the retailer."
Social Media Reacts to Food Emergency
The story gained traction after Thames Valley Police shared details of the incident on social media, prompting widespread disbelief and amusement from followers. Many users questioned what would possess someone to consider missing fast food an appropriate reason for contacting emergency services.
One social media user commented: "I've had food disappointments before, but never considered it a police matter," while another added: "What did they expect the armed response unit to do? Storm the restaurant and demand wings at gunpoint?"
Proper Use of Emergency Services
Police took the opportunity to remind the public about the correct use of emergency numbers:
- 999 should only be used for genuine emergencies where immediate police, fire, or medical assistance is required
- 101 is the non-emergency number for reporting crimes that don't require immediate response
- Food delivery complaints should be directed to the company's customer service channels
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the misuse of emergency services, which can delay responses to genuine life-threatening situations. Police resources are already stretched thin without having to investigate missing chicken wings and other non-emergency complaints.
Uber Eats has been contacted for comment regarding the customer's unusual approach to resolving their food delivery issue.
