It was a case of “right place at the right time” for Newry’s Neighbourhood police team after a car was stolen in the city centre on Tuesday night.
A member of the public was able to flag down officers on patrol moments after they had their car stolen on Monaghan Street.
“We quickly turned around and followed in the direction the vehicle was last sighted,” said the police spokesperson.
“We caught up with the vehicle as it turned into Carnagat Park. One shocked male who was sitting in the drivers seat with the engine still running didn’t expect to see police right behind him.”
Police confirmed that the driver of the stolen vehicle was subsequently arrested and taken to custody to “spend the night regretting the choices he made”.
He was also over the drink drive limit, had no driving licence and no insurance.
The spokesperson added: “An appearance with the district judge awaits to explain his actions.
“Thank you to all the members of the public for their quick thinking in alerting us and pointing us in the right direction.”
