Attempted robbery at cashpoint foiled by off-duty police officer

AN OFF-DUTY police officer has been being praised by colleagues after he chased and detained a 22-year-old man suspected of attempting to rob an elderly woman at a cashpoint.

A suspect was subsequently arrested by on-duty officers and spent the night in police cells in Hillingdon — thanks largely, say police, to “the bravery of an off-duty officer”.

Colleagues at the station said: “He showed the best qualities of policing and can be rightly proud of his actions.”

In a statement released early Thursday morning by Hillingdon Police, it was said that around 2pm on Wednesday November 2) an off-duty officer was in East Avenue, Hayes, when he saw three men apparently trying to rob an elderly woman at an ATM.

“Despite not having any protective equipment with him, he gave chase and detained one of the suspects, a 22-year-old man, while calling 999,” the statement read.

“On-duty officers arrived and the suspect was arrested on suspicion of robbery. He was taken into custody, where he remains. The two others fled in a vehicle.”

Hillingdon Police are now appealing to the public, asking anyone who witnessed the incident to call 101 with the reference 3973/02NOV. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

The incident was recounted on Twitter, with most of the respondents underneath congratulating the off-duty police officer.

STREET VIEW The roundabout at Pump Lane and Coldharbour Lane looking towards East Avenue in Hayes