A man attempting to steal a locked bicycle in north London found himself in a footrace with police after being caught in the act.
The would-be thief, dressed in a black hooded coat and jeans, was seen trying to lift a secured bike from a rack outside an Aldi supermarket on Edgware Road in Lisson Grove.
When his efforts to break the lock failed, he casually began to walk away—only to be noticed by officers in a passing marked police car.
READ MORE: Angry Man Crashes Truck into A&E Over Long Wait Times
The patrol car, its sirens blaring, pulled over near the scene, prompting two officers to jump out and pursue the suspect.
As the man broke into a run, he headed down Orchardson Street, disappearing around a corner by the supermarket.
The dramatic chase was captured in a 27-second video filmed by an amused onlooker who narrated the unfolding scene with tongue-in-cheek commentary.
“Feds are coming, mate,” the witness quipped in the clip.
“Run, police are coming. You’re gonna get nicked.”
As the officers gave chase, the bystander added: “He’s running, he’s running, he’s running.
Catch him, he’s off, catch him.”
The incident took place on Monday morning (December 16), with locals sharing their surprise at the quick police response.
Charlene, who was nearby at the time, admitted, “Initially I thought the police were on their way to lunch.
Can’t believe they got involved and chased.”
Another local, Steve, remarked, “Surprised the police came; must have been just around the corner.”
Social media reactions to the footage ranged from humor to disbelief.
Andrew Duncan joked, “Is that a first?” while Remiel Monroe added, “Oh my God.
Actual police work, fair play.”
The Metropolitan Police has been approached for comment regarding the attempted theft and ensuing chase.
READ MORE: Pilot Shocked as Vulture Crashes into Helicopter Windscreen
SOURCE: Would-be thief chased by cops after trying to pinch bike outside supermarket
