Overview
- A passing van driver pulled over on 16 June and told a pursuing armed officer to “get in the back,” a move that helped police close the gap on a suspect who had fled after a reported serious assault on Margate High Street.
- Kent Police published body‑worn camera footage on 25–26 June that shows the officer directing the driver from the van before the vehicle stopped and the officer jumped out to detain the suspect.
- The footage records the officer giving real‑time instructions from the rear of the van, the van overtaking the fleeing man, the officer drawing an automatic rifle and then ordering the suspect to stop before making the arrest.
- Armed Policing Superintendent Will Lay publicly thanked the unnamed driver, said his quick actions helped secure the arrest, and the force has recommended the driver for a commendation while protecting his identity in the released clip.
- The video has drawn wide public and media attention and raises questions about armed‑policing tactics in foot pursuits; Kent Police have not released further details on charges or the suspect’s identity.