Police officer borrows bike to chase down thief

A man who stole a suitcase outside St Pancras station in central London was caught by a police officer who borrowed a bystander's bicycle to chase him down.

The thief, who was seen grabbing the luggage from the boot of a taxi, had abandoned his loot in the road and fled.

The officer set off after him on foot, before a bystander offered his bicycle to help continue the pursuit, which ended in Hicham Labidi's arrest.

Labidi, 33, went on to plead guilty at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court to theft from the person over the 19 October incident. He is due to be sentenced on 25 March.

Labidi, of Ewhurst Close, Stepney, initially faced further charges of attempted theft, handling stolen goods and possession of a Class C drug but these were dropped.

Insp John Wilde of the Met Police said: "Labidi thought he'd made a quick getaway – but our officers were quicker, thanks to a member of the public who offered up his bike.

"We know theft is a real concern for Londoners and those who visit the capital. This case determines the Met's drive to tackle the issues that matter most to those who live, work in and visit the city."

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