Mass flock of sheep stop car-load of fugitives in police pursuit

Senior Sergeant Paula Enoka said that she is pleased the reckless driving did not cause any other incident.

The police pursuit began at 8am last Friday when cops unsuccessfully attempted to pull a Honda Integra for speeding and having no numbers plates.

A boy and girl, both aged 14, have been charged with three thefts in relation to petrol driveoffs and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

The sheep were being moved by a farm worker and working dogs, with none of the sheep, or dogs injured, as the vehicle came to a halt without attempting to drive through the flock. They have been charged for driving recklessly, failing to stop at flashing lights and three theft offences including a petrol drive off and taking a motor vehicle unlawfully.

A subsequent chase ranged far and wide over the Central Otago region, and eventually led police to the back roads of the district.

Officials said the driver did not try to run through the sheep.

Several police cars were involved in the chase and road spikes were used at several places.

The driver sped off and managed to stay ahead of police despite the use of road spikes.