Men arrested after alleged petrol theft in Mansfield and for 'punching' police officer in head

Officers apprehended the two men after reportedly stealing petrol from a garage, assaulting a police officer and failing to stop for police in the early hours of yesterday morning (Tuesday, January 5).

Police were called to Southwell Road West in Mansfield at around 2.30am yesterday in regards to a bilking incident, where then then located a Ford Focus driving at speed in the town centre.

The vehicle matched the description officers were given, but police temporarily lost sight of the vehicle – until it was later spotted again in Kirkby which started a car chase.

Tactical contact was made by officers and the pursuit ended, until the 18-year-old and 21-year-old men ran away from the scene on foot.

A police dog and its handler chased the suspects down, who were arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police, making off without payment, burglary and theft from a motor vehicle.

Officers also arrested the 21-year-old for common assault to an emergency worker and criminal damage after allegedly punching an officer in the head during the arrest.

Detective Sergeant Andrew Hall said: "This was fantastic work by officers to make two quick arrests in connection with a reported theft of petrol and also a car key burglary in Kirkby last week.

"We were called to Southwell Road West in Mansfield at around 2.30am this morning following a reported bilking incident.

"After a short pursuit, tactical contact was made when the subject car reversed towards an armed response vehicle.

"Both men were detained and remain in police custody.

"However during the arrest, an officer was punched to the head several times by one offender.

"The officer’s welfare is being supported, however he has suffered bruising to his head.

"Officer assaults are totally unacceptable.

"Thankfully, the officers in this incident were not seriously hurt but we will not tolerate assaults on police officers and other frontline emergency workers.

"They should not have to suffer violence at any time nor as they continue to serve the public in these challenging times.

“The message is loud and clear that anyone who commits offences of this nature can expect to be dealt with swiftly and robustly."

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