Taxi passenger chased down and arrested after jumping from vehicle holding a large bag of cannabis


A man has been arrested for drug offences and failing to adhere to government COVID-19 restrictions in Merseyside.
Officers stopped a taxi driving in the Knowsley area of Merseyside on 6 February after noticing that the passenger was failing to wear a face covering as per government COVID-19 rules. A male passenger who was seated in the rear of the cab jumped from the vehicle in an attempt to flee the officers.

Police officers were able to close in on the offender following a short foot-chase.
He was arrested for Possession With Intent to Supply. He was also handed a fine for breaking lockdown rules.
A spokesperson for Knowsley Police said: “On Saturday 6 February, officers stopped a taxi on Bank Lane, Kirkby after sighting a rear seat passenger not wearing a face mask. Before the taxi stopped, the male in the rear of the taxi jumped out with a large bag of cannabis and attempted to escape.
”A short foot-chase ensued and officers detained the male on Bank Lane, Kirkby, still in possession of the cannabis.
”The male was arrested for Possession With Intent to Supply a Class B Drug - Cannabis, and also issued with a COVID fine for not wearing a face covering in a taxi.”