Balaclava-Clad Teen Arrested After Stolen Moped Pursuit in Southampton

A 16 year old boy from Southampton has been arrested after a moped, carrying two individuals in balaclavas, was seen being ridden dangerously through several areas of the city yesterday afternoon.

Hampshire police received multiple calls at around 2:30pm on Friday, 8 August reporting a moped causing a nuisance in the Hamble area. Witnesses described the vehicle weaving through traffic and being ridden in a reckless manner.

The moped was later spotted crossing the Itchen Bridge into Sholing. Officers from the Roads Policing Unit tracked it down and found it stationary with the rider still on board. According to police, a “gentle nudge” from officers unseated the rider, who fled on foot.

Traffic officers, supported by armed response units (not in an armed capacity), detained the suspect nearby. Checks revealed the moped had been reported stolen.

The boy was arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police, possessing a stolen vehicle, driving without a licence, and driving without insurance. He has since been released on conditional bail while further investigations continue.

Police are still seeking to identify the second individual who was seen riding on the moped earlier in the day.

Officers thanked members of the public whose calls helped them locate the vehicle.