Five arrested on suspicion of campervan theft after police dogs bring Peak District chase to an end
The actions of two determined police dogs have led to five people being arrested over a campervan theft in Sheffield.
The incident unfolded on Sunday evening, and resulted in a police pursuit through a part of the Peak District.
A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson explained: “On Sunday night (February 15, 2026) at 10.42pm, our control room received a 999-call stating two men had stolen a campervan from the Arbourthorne area of the city.
“Our officers were immediately alerted and within 20 minutes, an eagle-eyed dog handler had the vehicle in his sights on the A57 towards Ladybower.
“He requested the driver to stop, and a pursuit commenced. Knowing those involved in criminality are more likely to take greater risks on the roads, the handler requested the support of colleagues from Derbyshire Constabulary who stung the vehicle’s tyres in Glossop, deflating them and bringing the pursuit to an end.
“Two men attempted to flee from the vehicle, but General Purpose Dog Angus was quickly deployed, and with four legs faster than two it wasn’t long before his handler was declaring over the radio ‘two detained, two detained’.
“Through investigative work, it was further suspected that a Volvo was involved in the theft and had been travelling in convoy prior to the police presence.
“Hunting for the vehicle and further suspects, it again wasn’t long before roads policing officers sighted the vehicle.
“A plan was quickly put in place, and with doubts the suspects would flee, General Purpose Dog Zac attended and had all three suspects under control and detained.”
During a search of the vehicle, officers found items consistent with committing thefts and a drugs wipe of the suspected driver found them to be under the influence of cocaine.
All of the suspects are understood to be from the Rochdale area of Greater Manchester.
They added: “We are committed to protecting and serving our communities and will do all we can to ensure those responsible for blighting our communities are put before the courts.”
The men, aged 25, 35, 49 and 55, were arrested on suspicion of various offences, including theft of a motor vehicle, driving without insurance, driving while over the prescribed limit and going equipped.
The woman, aged 23, was arrested on suspicion of theft from a vehicle and theft of a motor vehicle.
They have all since been released on police bail while South Yorkshire Police’s investigation continues.