WATCH | Norway Chase Goes Viral: Is THIS the Solution to UK's E-Bike and Motorbike Crime Wave?
Can the UK Learn from Norway's Hardline Approach to Crime?
Have you seen that wild video from Norway that's been making the rounds? If not, then scroll down for the video. It's all over social media and has got people talking – especially here in the UK. In the clip, Norwegian cops are in a high-speed chase with two robbery suspects on a motorbike.
These guys are tearing through a park, barely missing pedestrians, when the police decide they've had enough. They ram the bike, sending the suspects flying, and quickly take them into custody. It's intense, to say the least.
Naturally, it's got people here wondering: could UK police do the same, or is our system too bogged down by red tape to allow for that kind of decisive action?
The Motorbike Crime Problem
Let's face it – criminals on motorbikes and e-bikes are a real headache for UK police. If you subscribe to our YouTube channel then you will know exactly what we are talking about. Just last year, there were over 20,000 crimes involving motorcycles. Motorbikes are an obvious choice for these criminals because they can and do go where police vehicles can't. But while the police have the tools and know-how to deal with them, many officers feel like their hands are tied.
Why? Because the moment force is used, there's a good chance the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) will step in. And let's be honest, that's a process that can drag on for years. Critics argue that these investigations often miss the mark because the people running them haven't worked on the front lines. As one officer put it, "How can someone who's never been a police officer investigate someone with years of experience protecting the public from dangerous and determined criminals?"
A Culture of Playing It Safe
Because of all this, some say UK policing has become too cautious. Officers hesitate, not because they don't know what to do, but because they're worried about what comes next. Meanwhile, criminals seem to be getting bolder. One officer, speaking anonymously, explained, "We're tasked with protecting the public, but the fear of lengthy scrutiny means some officers, especially newer ones, think twice when seconds matter."
Have a story or video you’d like us to cover? Share it with our team of experienced former emergency services and armed forces personnel at contact@emergency-services.news – we’d love to hear from you!
The video from Norway shows what can and should happen when officers are backed to make tough calls. The Norwegian cops acted quickly and decisively, and the public's response has largely been supportive. It's a reminder of what's possible when officers don't have to second-guess themselves at every turn.
Finding the Sweet Spot
So, what's the solution? Should UK police have more freedom to act decisively when pursuing dangerous criminals? Some say yes, arguing it's the only way to keep the public safe.
One thing's clear: the current system isn't working for everyone. The IOPC's approach has its critics, with many arguing it's out of touch with the realities of modern policing, especially as violent crime seems to be getting out of control against a backdrop of more convicts being released from prison early and, in some cases, being given suspended sentences that embolden them to reoffend. A bit of balance would go a long way – something that lets officers do their jobs without constantly looking over their shoulders.
With criminals exploiting the gaps in the system, it feels like the UK's approach to police pursuits needs a rethink. Ultimately, it's all about giving officers the tools and support they need to keep us safe, while still holding them accountable when it matters.
OPINION: Time for UK Police to Embrace More Direct Tactics Against Violent Criminals
The recent viral video from Norway showcasing a bold police tactic in stopping motorbike-riding criminals has flared a necessary debate here in the UK about how our police handle similar situations. It's high time we acknowledge that the current system, with its heavy emphasis on procedure over practicality, is not only failing our officers but also compromising public safety.
In the UK, the rise in crimes involving e-bikes and motorbikes is undeniable. These vehicles offer criminals a swift (and cheap) escape from the traditional reach of police officers, often leaving officers in a quandary between taking decisive action and facing potentially career-altering scrutiny. The Norway incident, where police rammed a suspect's bike to prevent further endangerment to the public, highlights a crucial point: sometimes, direct action is the ONLY effective response to immediate threats.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to ESN Report to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.