Drug suspect drives through market in police chase

An alleged drug dealer drove through a pedestrianised shopping area, narrowly missing a member of the public, during a high-speed chase, police have said.

The pursuit came after an unmarked Merseyside Police car tried to stop a "suspicious" Audi A3 in Netherton, Bootle, at around 15:00 BST on Wednesday.

The force said the vehicle accelerated away, went the wrong way around a roundabout and drove at high-speed, including into an open market and shopping area on Marian Square.

The driver abandoned the vehicle on All Saints Lane, with the police giving chase. A 19-year-old man was arrested close by on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving without a valid licence or insurance.

A number of bags containing white powder and cannabis resin were recovered.

The teenage suspect is also being held on suspicion of possessing Class A and B drugs with intent to supply, Merseyside Police say. He remains in police custody.

Insp Ian Cowell said: "Thanks to the instincts of the officers who saw the car, and their diligence and expertise in following him, we were able to detain the male quickly.

"Our work to remove drugs and those who choose to peddle them on the streets of Merseyside remains ongoing, and we would urge the public to support us by coming forward with information."

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