Man arrested in Otukaikino Stream after Belfast stolen vehicle crash

A man has been arrested after allegedly colliding with another motorist while driving in a stolen vehicle, before jumping into a stream in an attempt to evade police.

Inspector Craig Scott said the stolen vehicle was first identified travelling in the Kaiapoi area this morning, before later being sighted in Belfast.

“Upon police arrival in the area, the driver is believed to have become aware of the police presence and left the area, colliding with a member of the public’s vehicle as they drove away,” he said.

No injuries were reported as a result of the collision.

A short time later, police located the stolen vehicle abandoned on Dickies Rd.

Scott said the man was then found by the police in the middle of Otukaikino Stream, refusing to leave the water.

“Attending officers engaged with the man, who was refusing to come out of the water, with the assistance of the Police Negotiation Team,” he said.

“After a period of negotiation, the man was taken into custody without further incident.

“Due to his immersion in cold water, the man was assessed by ambulance staff prior to being transported from the scene.”

A 43-year-old man has been arrested on a warrant to arrest and for unlawful taking of a motor vehicle.

He is scheduled to appear in Christchurch District Court on April 1.

Police thanked members of the public for their co-operation and patience while the incident was resolved.