Officers used local knowledge and a borrowed pushbike to track down and detain the suspects.

Two people were arrested and a stolen motorbike recovered after quick work by police officers in Wombourne.

South Staffordshire Police said that officers had attempted to stop a blue Yamaha motorbike that failed to comply and made off from police on Thursday.

The force said the bike was then ridden along the canal path towards Swindon, forcing several members of the public to move out of the way.

However, due to local knowledge from neighbourhood officers, the suspects were quickly located after abandoning the motorbike and attempting to escape on foot.

A lengthy foot chase then followed, with the force saying that members of the public had played a key role by helping direct officers to their location.

The officer used a pushbike to catch and detain the suspects. Photo: South Staffordshire Police | South Staffordshire Police

placeholder image — The officer used a pushbike to catch and detain the suspects. Photo: South Staffordshire Police | South Staffordshire Police

This included one resident who lent their pushbike to an officer, helping officers close the gap and swiftly detain both suspects.

Enquiries revealed the Yamaha motorbike had been stolen from Derbyshire.

The two males, aged 15 and 17, were subsequently arrested and have since been released under investigation.

A spokesman for South Staffordshire Police said: “This incident is a great example of the value of local neighbourhood policing.

“Knowing the area, working closely with our communities, and having the support of vigilant members of the public all contributed to a successful outcome.

“Your information and support make a real difference in keeping our communities safe.”