Paphos, Cyprus. A 20-year-old man was arrested early Sunday in Paphos after a high-speed police pursuit ended in a crash, police said on Monday. An 18-year-old passenger was detained for questioning.
Initial report and pursuit
Police said the incident began at around 6pm on Saturday after receiving a report about two individuals acting suspiciously in a vehicle. Officers approached the vehicle, which had no registration plates, and signaled the driver to stop, but the driver accelerated and fled.
During the pursuit, police fired warning shots. The chase ended at a roundabout, where the 18-year-old passenger exited the vehicle and was immediately detained for questioning.
Driver sought and second pursuit
Police said the driver initially escaped by entering oncoming traffic and disappearing, and an arrest warrant was issued later that day. At around 2am on Sunday, a police patrol located the 20-year-old driver, who again attempted to flee when signaled to stop.
Police said he drove recklessly before losing control of the vehicle, striking a tree and overturning into a field. The driver was arrested and tested positive for drugs.
Hospital treatment and charges
Police said the driver was taken by ambulance to Paphos general hospital for treatment before being formally charged.
What measures do you think could reduce dangerous police pursuits on public roads?
