In a bizarre conclusion to a retail theft pursuit, a police officer in Hertfordshire lifted the lid of a wheelie bin to find a suspected shoplifter hiding inside.
The Chase Through Welwyn Garden City
The incident began on December 8, 2025, when officers responded to reports of a theft from the John Lewis store in Welwyn Garden City. A man and a woman were accused of stealing multiple bottles of alcohol. As police gave chase, the pair reportedly split up in an attempt to escape the area.
The Unusual Discovery in a Bin
During the search for the suspects, one officer made an unexpected discovery. Upon investigating a seemingly ordinary wheelie bin, the officer opened it to find the female suspect crouched within, attempting to evade capture. The moment was captured on video.
Charges and Consequences
A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Police confirmed the outcome of the pursuit. The woman discovered in the bin has now been charged with nine shoplifting offences in connection with the incident. The force's statement brings a formal close to the unusual case.
The event highlights the lengths to which some individuals will go to avoid arrest and the diligent search efforts of police officers. The full video of the discovery is available to view.
