Witness appeal following pursuit in Woking

We’re appealing for witnesses after reports of catalytic converter theft in Guildford led to a dangerous police pursuit into Woking last night (30 May).

Officers were called to reports of catalytic converters being stolen after car alarms were heard going off in the Slyfield Industrial Estate in Guildford at around 11.30pm.

 

Shortly after police arrival, four men fled the scene in a black Audi, initiating a pursuit with a police armed response vehicle. 

 

The Audi joined the A3 Northbound, where the men proceeded to throw objects at the police car in a bid to stop their vehicle. They left the A3 at Painshill Junction before driving into Woking town centre via Byfleet Road and Chertsey Road. Shortly after the Audi entered the town centre, then drove the wrong way up a one way street, forcing officers to abandon the pursuit. The Audi then collided with another car and the men decamped their vehicle. The driver of the car received minor injuries.

 

Officers searched the area with assistance from the National Police Air Service and located one of the men nearby on Worsley Walk. Unfortunately, despite an extensive search of the area, the other three men remain outstanding.

 

A 32-year-old man from Middlesex remains in custody after he was arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police, dangerous driving, theft and criminal damage. 

 

Detective Constable Ryan Shaw said: “This was an extremely dangerous pursuit which could’ve resulted in a much more serious outcome. Woking town centre was busy at the time of the incident, and we believe people might have witnessed part of the pursuit or saw the men decamp on foot. It is also possible that the men used a taxi to flee the scene.

 

“If you saw anything which could help our investigation, or if you have CCTV footage of the areas mentioned, please contact us straightaway. We are working hard to locate those involved and are keen to speak to anyone who might have information - you can report this anonymously if you’d prefer.”

 

If you have any information which could help, please contact us quoting crime reference number PR/45210056250 via:

 

•             Webchat on our website surrey.police.uk

•             Online https://www.surrey.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

•             Calling us on 101

 

If you do not wish to leave your name, please call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.