Balaclava-clad crooks caught after high-speed chase and cannabis fire drama in Ashfield
Masked suspects spark police chase
Just before 3am on 22 December, officers were scrambled to Dalestorth Street, Sutton in Ashfield, after reports of suspects dashing from a property wearing balaclavas and jumping into a Vauxhall. Police soon spotted the vehicle but the driver slammed the accelerator instead of stopping.
A nail-biting pursuit ensued — until the car was abandoned moments later. Officers chased on foot and nabbed a 32-year-old man who failed to shake them off. He’s now in custody, facing charges including dangerous driving, failing to stop, and possession and production of a class B drug.
Another suspect on the run
Investigations continue to track down a second suspect who fled the scene. Police haven’t given up the hunt for the mysterious accomplice.
Horrific cannabis grow sparks fire scare
Meanwhile, a separate police team raided the targeted house on Dalestorth Street and stumbled on a sprawling cannabis farm spanning multiple rooms. As they climbed the stairs, officers were hit by smoke and the smell of burning. They quickly retreated and alerted the fire brigade.
Firefighters arrived fast and doused a small blaze in a bedroom caused by an overturned heat lamp — a known hazard in illegal grow operations.
Detective vows to crack down hard
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Hall of Nottinghamshire Police said:
“By responding so quickly, we stopped a potentially deadly fire that could have spread to nearby homes. Cannabis grows pose massive fire risks — we won’t tolerate it.
“We believe burglars targeted the property to steal plants. Our officers did brilliantly tracking down the suspect vehicle and making an arrest.
“This case is early days, but we won’t leave a stone unturned to catch everyone involved.”
