In a dramatic turn of events in the early hours of Thursday, November 9, the Metropolitan Police engaged in a high-speed car chase on the A12, culminating in the arrest of a man on suspicion of attempted murder.
The incident began around 1.40 am in Gants Hill, when police attempted to pull over a vehicle with cloned number plates. The driver of the car, however, failed to comply, leading to a tense pursuit along the A12. The chase eventually ended near New Spitalfields Market.
As the situation escalated, one of the police officers, while approaching the vehicle to make an arrest, was hit by the car as it reversed. The officer was immediately rushed to the hospital with leg injuries, which were fortunately not life-threatening.
A 27-year-old man, the driver of the car, was apprehended at the scene. He faces charges of attempted murder and has been taken into custody. Furthermore, his list of alleged offences extends to failing to stop for police, aggravated vehicle taking, driving while unfit due to drinking or drugs, and possession with intent to supply drugs.
Additionally, two other individuals, aged 21 and 22, were also arrested at the scene on suspicion of drug possession with intent to supply.
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and the serious consequences of criminal behaviour involving vehicles. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to unravel the full extent of the incident and the charges faced by those involved.