Police hit brakes in their BMW patrol cars

POLICE have been ordered to slow down in high speed chases – because of problems with BMW patrol cars.

Officers must not do more than 20mph over the speed limit in some vehicles. Others with different engines have been withdrawn.

It comes after PC Nick Dumphreys, 47, died when his BMW burst into flames while he was responding to a 999 call near Carlisle in 2020.

Northumbria, Hertfordshire and Cumbria are among forces to replace BMWs.

The order means the maximum speed for police will be 90mph on a motorway and some officers fear criminals will escape capture. But police chiefs said it would not affect the service to the public.

German manufacturer BMW said the problem arises because of the “unique” way police drive. It stressed: “There is no need for action on any civilian vehicles.”