PURSUIT OF STOLEN MERCEDES LEADS TO THE ARREST OF 3 MALES

2 men and a teenage boy have been arrested on suspicion of multiple offences following the pursuit of a stolen Mercedes through Newchurch this afternoon (Wednesday). The black Mercedes C Class was stolen from Cothey Way in Ryde between 20:00 and 22:00 on Sunday. Since then, several incidents involving this vehicle have been reported to Police, prompting officers to keep a sharp eye out for the stolen motor. Less than 48 hours after the vehicle was stolen, at around midday on Tuesday, it was reported that 2 males stole a number of items from a farm in Havenstreet before making off in the Mercedes. Then, at just before midnight last night, the same vehicle was involved in a further theft from the same farm. Furthermore, at around 19:00 yesterday evening, 3 males filled up the same vehicle with £60 fuel at Morrisons in Lake before driving away without paying. The Mercedes has now been recovered after Police spotted the vehicle on Lake Hill at 13:16 this afternoon. A pursuit entailed, which saw the vehicle travelling through Apse Heath and Newchurch. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary says the vehicle was eventually stopped on Knighton Shute, where 3 arrests were made. A 24-year-old male from Shanklin has been arrested on suspicion of taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. A 19-year-old male from Sandown has been arrested on suspicion of drug driving, driving while disqualified, making off without payment and theft. A 17-year-old male from Sandown has been arrested on suspicion of theft and possession of class B drugs. All 3 remain in custody at Newport Police Station at this time. Anyone with information about any of the above incidents should contact Police on 101, quoting reference 44240289369.