Crack Head’s Dangerous Police Chase Ends in Prison
Tahir Razaq, 42, from Ribston Place, was high on crack cocaine when he ignored police orders to stop on 13 January 2022. His wild joyride sparked a high-speed chase that Sheffield Crown Court heard about this week (20 March).
High-Speed Chase on Wrong Side of M1
Police in Rotherham noticed Razaq driving his Kia Nero at breakneck speeds. A check revealed the car was possibly linked to organised crime. Officers ordered him to stop, but he sped off, sparking a pursuit.
The chase took a terrifying turn when Razaq drove onto the M1 at Junction 34 – heading the wrong way down the motorway.
Officers, trained to weigh risks during pursuits, decided the danger was too great and pulled back, waiting for a safer moment.
Repeat Offender Busted After Tactics Used to Stop Him
Moments later, roads policing officers spotted Razaq again. He once more failed to stop.
PC Michael Ramsden, who led the second pursuit, said: “I heard over the radio that Razaq had already failed to stop for district officers and then saw his car at the roundabout at Junction 34.
“He failed to stop again. Knowing he’d already been on the motorway, I used tactical contact to bring his car to a halt.
“He was high on drugs and showed zero remorse for the danger he’d put innocent drivers in.
“During the initial chase he reached 90mph in a 40mph zone and ran red lights. During mine, he tried again to go the wrong way on the M1. Even after tactical contact stopped him, he tried to run.”
Sentenced to 18 Months and Banned from the Roads
Razaq was arrested and charged with dangerous driving, driving while over the prescribed limit, and other motoring offences.
On 20 March, Sheffield Crown Court sentenced him to 18 months in prison, handed him a three year and nine month driving ban, and ordered him to pay a £156 victim surcharge.
