A suspected thief ran onto the Ironman course in Bolton on Sunday afternoon in a bid to escape police, but was quickly apprehended with assistance from off-duty officers who were competing in the endurance event.
Incident Details
The suspect was spotted by police in Bolton town centre attempting to sell items believed to be stolen. When officers approached, he fled onto the Ironman 70.3 course, which was taking place that day. However, his escape was short-lived as police gave chase.
PC Wilkinson, the same officer who had detained the man during a similar incident at the 2025 Ironman event, pursued him. With the help of off-duty officers from Essex who were participating in the race, the suspect was stopped a short distance away.
Arrest and Charges
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the man was arrested on suspicion of theft and handling stolen goods. He remains in custody for questioning.
A GMP spokesperson said: "It was a case of deja vu from Ironman 2025 when the same male made off from officers onto the track and was detained by the same officer!"
The off-duty officers from Essex had travelled to Bolton specifically for the Ironman 70.3 event. Their quick response helped ensure the suspect was apprehended without further incident.
