Update after rooftop stand-off in Gateshead
Two people will appear in court today (Wed 12th March)
Two suspects in handcuffs and a motorcycle seized – after an almost five-hour rooftop stand-off with police in Gateshead.
Shortly before 1.10pm on Monday, March 10, officers were alerted to an attempted break-in at an address on Milton Terrace in North Shields.
It was alleged that two males had broken a lock on a garage, before trying to access other properties nearby.
Empty handed, the pair were then reported to have drove away from the area on a distinctive red motorcycle, and the alarm was raised to Northumbria Police by eagle-eyed residents.
Officers from the Force’s dedicated Motorcycle Unit identified the bike as being linked to a string of incidents in the region where it was allegedly using cloned number plates.
Later that day, at around 2.30pm, National Police Air Service (NPAS) officers sighted a bike matching the description from above in the Team Valley area of Gateshead.
The motorcycle was followed, where two males abandoned the vehicle and climbed onto the external roof of a premises on Princesway North.
A cordon was put in place while officers negotiated with them, and the incident was brought to a safe conclusion at around 7pm.
A 22-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of theft of a vehicle, while a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to steal motor vehicles.
They have since been charged in connection with the incident and are due to appear before magistrates in South Tyneside today (Wednesday).
Inspector Phil Patterson, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a brilliant outcome, after officers spotted a vehicle of interest believed to be linked to a string of attempted break-ins across the region.
“They took swift action to pursue a pair of suspects – which ultimately led to their arrests, and they will now face the courts.
“Not only that, but one of the males has been charged in connection with a string of recent reports in our Force area.
“I hope this sends a strong message to anyone set out to commit crime – especially those on motorcycles and similar vehicles.
“You cannot hide, and our specialist officers are ready to pursue and detain you when necessary.”
Inspector Phil Patterson added: “As ever, this comes as a timely reminder for businesses and residents to ensure their property and valuables are secure.
“That way, opportunistic thieves have less of a chance when it comes to burglary and theft.”
Members of the public who would like to report suspicious activity in their area can contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media or by using live chat and report forms on the Force’s website.
Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. In an emergency, or where a crime is taking place, always dial 999.