Cyclist gives chase in Taunton shoplifting drama (From Somerset County Gazette)

Cyclist gives chase in Taunton shoplifting drama

7:00pm Monday 25th February 2013 in News By Laura Barton

A CYCLIST who chased two suspected shoplifters during a dramatic incident in Taunton town centre has told of his heroism. 

A full-scale police operation was launched with the force helicopter and dogs called in after the rush hour raid at Carphone Warehouse in East Street.

Four men burst into the store shortly before closing time last Monday (February 18) and swiped eight mobile phones worth £5,000 before sprinting off.

Acting manager Bobby Mehta, who ran after the thieves with colleague Rob Scurlock, said: “When they came in I suspected them immediately, but they were so quick.

“I knew I had to chase them because I had to send them a message to say you can’t do this and we’re not an easy target.”

Nick Greedy, who was cycling home after his shift at Timpson’s in North Street, took up the chase when he heard the commotion and took up the chase.

He said: “I was heading home and had crossed the traffic lights on my bike.

“The manager was shouting for someone to stop some people, so I followed them to the Canon Street car park.

“I came round the corner fast and, when they saw me they got out of the car and I followed them through the car park, and then phoned the police to tell them where they were going.”

The suspects scrambled over a fence and on to the roofs of nearby buildings, as a team of officers arrived on the scene.

Two 21-year-old men later arrested and held in Taunton Police Station overnight were later released on police bail pending further inquiries.