A MAN was arrested on suspicion of kidnap in Ashton-under-Lyne after a woman’s car was
stolen while her elderly mother was in the passenger seat.
The driver had left the engine running to keep the vehicle warm while her 89-year-old mother waited inside near Ashton Market, at around 1pm on Saturday (January 6).
Greater Manchester Police say a man got into the car and drove away, with the elderly
woman still inside.
After being alerted to the incident, officers quickly began to pursue the vehicle and it was stopped.
The woman was safely reunited with her daughter with no injuries and there was no damage to the vehicle, the force added.
A 50-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of kidnap, theft of a motor vehicle and dangerous driving. He remains in police custody for questioning.
Chief Inspector Matt Jackson praised the quick response of the officers involved and was glad the matter was safely resolved.
“From identifying the stolen vehicle to arresting the suspect, our officers are highly skilled and dedicated individuals, and this arrest goes to show how much work goes into these operations across the force,” he said.
“I am pleased to hear that the elderly woman was safely reunited with her daughter, it must
have been really terrifying for her to have been the passenger whilst the car was driven off by a stranger.
“GMP will not tolerate this reckless behaviour and I hope these actions demonstrate that we
will use all resources available to catch suspects and make sure our streets are safe.”