Police plane over Sheffield and Doncaster helps track down suspects after chases

Police have given more details about why a police plane was spotted over Sheffield and Doncaster during the weekend.
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Many people had spotted the new aircraft in the skies above South Yorkshire, where a police helicopter has also been seen hovering in recent days.

The force was intially tight-lipped over their true reason, leading some to speculate that they were being used to help enforce the coronavirus lockdown.

A police plane helped track down suspects who had fled from officers in Sheffield and Doncaster, one of whom was wanted on recall to prisonA police plane helped track down suspects who had fled from officers in Sheffield and Doncaster, one of whom was wanted on recall to prison
A police plane helped track down suspects who had fled from officers in Sheffield and Doncaster, one of whom was wanted on recall to prison
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But South Yorkshire Police’s operational support unit has now explained how the plane was helping officers track down suspects who were fleeing from police.

“It's been a weekend where we have really appreciated the support of National Police Avaition around the county,” said officers.

“Firstly in Sheffield where they assisted the team in trying to find a male who ran from a stolen car.

“Second in Doncaster where a Vectra fails to stop for traffic officers and a pursuit commences. Driver and passengers try their luck on foot and the aircraft was on scene within two minutes and guides us right to their hiding spot.

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“Suspected driver arrested for several offences including dangerous and drug driving, it soon transpires he has provided false details to officers and the reason soon becomes clear - wanted on a recall to prison! That’s a one way ticket straight back inside.”

The National Police Air Service’s (NPAS) took delivery of the new black-and-yellow planes last year but testing and training had to take place before they could enter full service, meaning they have only become a more frequent sight in recent months.