Police arrest suspected bike thief and drug dealer in Wythenshawe woods
Police arrest suspected bike thief and drug dealer in Wythenshawe

Police have arrested a 41-year-old man in Wythenshawe on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, robbery, and drug offences following a dramatic pursuit in Hatchetts Wood on Sunday (October 4).

Officers on patrol spotted a 'suspicious motorbike' with its engine running in the woods. As they approached, the driver attempted to flee, but bodycam footage shows officers shouting 'no' as they tackled the man to the ground and arrested him.

Drugs, cash, and phones found

A search following the arrest uncovered a 'substantial' amount of class A drugs, along with cash and a number of mobile phones, according to a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson.

The bike was confirmed as having been reported as stolen in a robbery more than a month ago. The man was further arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Further arrest and custody

Checks revealed he was disqualified from driving, leading to an additional arrest. The suspect remains in custody for questioning.

GMP's PC Rose said: “This is a good example of officers taking proactive action to arrest and detain suspected offenders. Your neighbourhood officers are dedicated to tacking serious crime in your area.”

PC Rose added: “If you have suspicions about neighbourhood crime in your area, you can contact us on 101 or via the ‘Live Chat’ function on our website. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”