Three teenagers have been arrested in connection with a motorcycle theft in Eastbourne – despite two of them jumping into the sea to try and evade officers.
Police were called to Sovereign Harbour around 4am on Monday 7 August after a resident reported three boys acting suspiciously around a motorbike.
Within minutes, officers were on the scene and had eyes on the suspects.
One of the boys tried to flee but was detained nearby with the assistance of a police dog, while the other two boys jumped into the water in an attempt to escape police.
Ambulance crews and HM Coastguard were called but officers were able to safely pull the boys back to shore with the help of life rings.
By 4.24am, the boys aged 13, 14 and 16 were all arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle. The 14-year-old boy was also arrested on suspicion of going equipped to steal.
They have been released on bail with strict conditions while enquiries continue.
Chief Inspector Di Lewis, district commander for Eastbourne, said:
“The vigilance of the resident who called it in, and the subsequent swift response of our officers, meant we were able to locate and apprehend these suspects in a matter of minutes.
“We were also able to return the stolen motorbike to its owner and our investigation into the theft is very much ongoing.
“Situations like this show how important it is for members of the public to report crime to us and we urge anyone who sees something suspicious to let us know about it.”
Information can be passed to police online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
Overnight Closures For A22 Forest Row Road Improvements
Brighton Defence Manufacturer's Controversial Planning Application Likely To Be Heard
Over £2.4m Approved For Worthing School Support Centre
Section Of M25 To Close Again Tonight - As Drivers Warned Not To Get Complacent
Plans For 800 New Horsham Homes Refused
Over 200 Co-Living Flats Approved For Brighton
Teenager In Custody On Crawley Attempted Murder Charge
Appeal Following Assault In Hastings
Road Closed As Armed Police Attend Incident In Worthing
Lewes District Council Placed In Planning Special Measures