Public tip-off leads to arrest of suspected Gateshead International Stadium thieves

Police have tracked down the two suspected accused of stealing solar panels from the iconic Gateshead International Stadium.

Shortly after 8:30 pm on Wednesday, May 11 officers from Northumbri Police received a tip-off that two men were acting suspiciously off Neilson Road.

It was reported that they appeared to be trying to steal new solar panels from the premises.

Officers were deployed to the scene and after getting detailed descriptions of the suspects from witnesses, they quickly scoured the local area.

Within minutes, they located a van believed to have been used by the thieves nearby – and arrested two suspects on suspicion of theft.

Inside the vehicle, officers also located the stolen panels which will be subsequently returned to their owners.

Chief Inspector Mick Hall, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was an excellent result and highlights once again how the public can be our eyes and ears.

“By working together, they reported the suspicious activity and passed on crucial information that meant we were able to hone in on our suspects and quickly locate them just minutes after the theft.

“Not only that, but the officers were also able to retrieve the stolen items – it was a case of good old-fashioned policing, and I’d like to thank everyone involved for the part that they played.

“This criminality will not be tolerated and we will continue to deal with thieves and burglars robustly. By working together with the public, we can all help ensure the North East remains as safe as it possibly can be to live, work and visit.”

The men – aged 48 and 42 – remain in police custody and will be interviewed throughout the course of the day.