Suspect tries to escape police by jumping in river

A police chase has come to a watery end after a suspect attempted to escape by jumping into a river.

The man, who had allegedly threatened a shop worker in Bedford town centre, was pursued by an officer on a bicycle borrowed from a member of the public.

Bedfordshire Police said that after a lengthy negotiation from the bank of the River Great Ouse, the man finally decided to come ashore.

The man was arrested on suspicion of theft and possession of an offensive weapon.

It was later discovered a warrant for his arrest had already been issued when he failed to appear in court where he was facing charges of 13 thefts.

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