High-Speed Chase Ends with Arrest and Recovery of Machete and Drugs in Oldham

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 17th March 2025, at 17:10hrs

A dramatic police pursuit late Sunday night resulted in the arrest of a 19-year-old man and the recovery of a machete and drugs, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed.

Shortly before 10:30 pm on March 16th, officers were alerted to reports of a stolen vehicle in Delph, Oldham.

Upon locating the suspected stolen car, the driver initiated a high-speed escape, prompting a police pursuit.

Specially trained drivers from the Roads Policing Unit engaged in the chase, attempting to bring the vehicle to a safe stop.

As the pursuit approached the A627(M), the fleeing driver entered a “no entry” lane and proceeded to drive against oncoming traffic, creating a significant danger to other road users.

The stolen vehicle ultimately crashed into roadside railings. The driver then attempted to flee on foot.

During the chase, officers discovered and seized a machete believed to have been discarded by the suspect. A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded a quantity of drugs.

Following a brief foot pursuit, a 19-year-old man was apprehended and arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a bladed article, and possession of drugs.

He remains in police custody for questioning.

Inspector Jamie Buchanan, from the Roads Policing Unit, emphasized the gravity of the incident, stating,

“This latest arrest is a prime example of the work we are doing on a daily basis to trace stolen cars and remove drugs and weapons from our streets.”

He further condemned the driver’s reckless behavior, highlighting, “The driver showed a blatant disregard for members of the public, reaching speeds of over 100mph, and even driving the wrong way on a busy roundabout.”

Inspector Buchanan expressed relief that no members of the public were injured during the dangerous pursuit.

“Thankfully, no members of the public were injured, but without the quick-thinking actions of the officers involved, this could’ve ended very differently,” he added.

The incident underscores the ongoing efforts by Greater Manchester Police to combat vehicle theft and related criminal activities in the region. Investigations are continuing.