Quick thinking fire crew come to the rescue as shop lifter legs it out of town centre shop

A FIRE crew from Wisbech stopped a shoplifter today in Wisbech town centre. Whilst carrying out their annual Christmas safety inspections of shops in the town centre, the crew witnessed the attempted theft from the M&M store. The assailant ran out of th

A FIRE crew from Wisbech stopped a shoplifter in the town centre.

Whilst carrying out their annual Christmas safety inspections of shops in the town centre, the crew witnessed the attempted theft from the M&M store.

The assailant ran out of the store with several items which still had electronic tags attached, setting off the alarm.

Quick-thinking watch manger John Chelton confronted the shoplifter and was able to retrieve the stolen goods at the scene.

As the rest of the crew contacted police from their fire engine, the thief attempted an escape but another member of the fire crew gave chase and managed to catch the assailant and apprehend him until police arrived five minutes later.

Staff at the M&M store were extremely grateful for the actions of the crew, without which the shoplifter would have gotten away.

Police praised the bravery and quick reactions of the firefighters during a potentially dangerous situation.

Mr Chelton said: “It was extremely good luck that we happened to be in the area. When we saw him stuffing jumpers into his bag we couldn’t quite believe it at first, but we soon jumped out and confronted him.

“It was a good example of how we can help and protect the community we serve in many different ways, including fire safety and prevention.”

Wisbech Sector Inspector Andy Sullivan, said: “I would like to thank the firefighters for their assistance. Their efforts are greatly appreciated.”

• A 22-year-old man from Wisbech has been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting. He is currently in custody at March Police Station.