Rochdale, UK - May 9, 2024.

In a dramatic turn of events captured on dashcam footage, a police officer has garnered praise for his quick thinking and decisive action in apprehending a suspect attempting to evade arrest.

The incident unfolded at 2:49 pm on Thursday (May 9) on Whitworth Street in Rochdale, as a man in a grey top and tracksuit bottoms attempted to flee from the back of an ambulance where he had been detained by police.

The suspect, who had been arrested on suspicion of theft, drugs, and weapons offences, made a desperate dash from the ambulance onto a nearby petrol station forecourt, before retracing his steps onto Whitworth Street. However, his escape bid was abruptly halted by a vigilant male officer who executed a rugby tackle, bringing the suspect to the ground before additional officers swiftly arrived to assist.

The Greater Manchester Police Traffic unit shared the dashcam footage, highlighting the officer's courageous intervention and emphasizing the importance of teamwork in law enforcement. The video serves as a testament to the dedication and bravery exhibited by officers in upholding public safety and enforcing the law.