Train user praised for detaining a suspected robber on the Metro
The brave member of the public tackled him to the ground last week
Officers have heaped praise on a brave member of the public who helped detain a suspected robber on a Metro train.
At 10pm on Thursday (February 2), plain-clothed officers were conducting patrols on the Metro network when they were alerted to a male attempting to steal a pedal cycle as a train was passing near Palmersville station in North Tyneside.
But the owner wasn’t ready to hand over his bike easily and immediately detained a suspect by wrestling him to the floor of the carriage.
Officers on board the train were then able to swiftly intervene and arrested a 38-year-old man on suspicion of robbery. He has since been released on bail with enquires ongoing.
Speaking about the positive result, Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, Area Commander for North Tyneside and Northumberland said:
“This was a great arrest which came about as a result of our proactive patrols being carried out across the Metro network.
“I would like to commend the member of the public who bravely tackled the suspect to the ground while alerting our officers. While we would never actively encourage members of the public to put themselves at risk or harm, the individual in question acted quickly and decisively – and they should be very proud of themselves.
“I want the public to know that thefts of any kind will not be tolerated, and anybody found to be responsible will be put before the courts. We have uniformed and plain-clothed officers who are routinely patrolling across the Metro network to tackle any pockets of disorder and bring swift action against the minority who look to cause trouble or commit crime.
“As ever, I’d ask people to continue reporting suspicious behaviour to us so we can continue to stop thieves in their tracks.”
If you see anything suspicious, please contact us via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the police website or by calling 101.
In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999.
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