Essex Police Dog Lando Tracks Down Five Suspects in One Wild Night
Essex Police’s star canine, Lando, was on top form on Saturday 21 June. The highly trained dog played a crucial role in catching five suspects during two separate incidents across Essex, with help from a police helicopter and several patrol teams.
Moped Chase Leads to Burglary Arrest
Just before 7pm, officers spotted a moped suspected of being linked to a burglary earlier that evening. The bike, thought to have cloned number plates, refused to stop. After a tense police pursuit, the rider ditched the moped and fled on foot.
Enter PD Lando. The dog tracked the suspect to a barn where he was found hiding. Police arrested a 40-year-old Surrey man on suspicion of burglary and conspiracy to commit burglary. He has since been released on bail as investigations continue.
High-Speed Car Crash and Four Arrests in Crays Hill
Later the same night, Lando was called to Crays Hill after a car rammed into a police vehicle during a failed stop attempt. The occupants bolted on foot.
PD Lando led handler PC Sam Williams to a closed garden centre, where two suspects were hiding in a toilet cubicle. Four men in total were arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft, dangerous driving, and failing to stop for police.
- 56-year-old man from Crays Hill
- 54-year-old man from London
- 22-year-old man from Harlow
- 18-year-old man (location unconfirmed)
The 18-year-old also faces an extra charge of going equipped to steal a vehicle. All four have been released on bail while inquiries continue.
Essex Police Praise Lando’s Exceptional Work
“PD Lando had a busy night, helping officers locate and arrest five suspects involved in serious offences. From tracking a burglary suspect to flushing out hiding offenders in a garden centre toilet, he proved invaluable.” – Essex Police Spokesperson
PD Lando remains a vital asset to the Essex Police dog unit, regularly deployed in operations tackling vehicle crime, burglary, and boosting public safety.
