Dramatic moment off-duty police officer chases after and arrests would-be moped thieves in London

This is the dramatic moment an off-duty police officer chases after and arrests a pair of would-be moped thieves – as he is cycling home from work.

Police Sergeant Steve Clarke was riding through Tolworth, south west London on Thursday, December 6 last year when he came across the pair. 

The driver, aged just 15, was driving erratically dangerously along a pedestrian walkway and PS Clarke believed a mugging was about to take place. 

Stepping in, he grabbed hold of the young motorist before identifying himself as a police officer and asking members of the public to call for back-up. 

PS Clarke made chase along a pedestrian walkway, as the moped tried to get away. He was able to catch up and pull the pair over

The passenger managed to escape from the scene after a struggle, but the 15-year-old was arrested on suspicion of aggravated taking and driving away. 

Now, as PS Clarke was on Monday commended by Assistant Commissioner Mark Simmons, the Metropolitan Police has released footage of the incident. 

It shows PS Clarke making chase along Tolworth Broadway before cycling up next to the moped and bringing it to a stop. 

The Metropolitan Police Twitter account for Kingston tweeted the footage yesterday.

It wrote: On Monday, PS Steve Clarke was commended by AC Simmons for his courage & dedication to duty. 

‘While cycling home, Steve prevented a moped-enabled theft by two youths on a moped in

‘The footage from his bicycle’s camera captured the incident.’

The passenger ran away from the scene, but PS Clarke (right) arrested the 15-year-old driver. He was later charged with driving while disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence 

PS Clarke suffered an injury to his leg in the incident. Dozens have taken to Twitter to praise his brave actions, with one saying: ‘Nice one Steve. One up for the good guys.’

At the time, Chief Superintendent Sally Benatar said: ‘I am very proud of Sergeant Clarke. His quick reaction and intervention have undoubtedly prevented a crime from taking place.

‘I commend his professionalism and commitment to keeping South West London safe, even while cycling home for work.

‘I’d also like to express my thanks to the members of public who came to Steve’s assistance when they saw and heard what was happening – I’m very grateful for their support.’

The 15-year-old was charged with driving while disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence. He appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, December 19.