The province's police watchdog is investigating the arrest of two men after police were forced to use a spike belt to stop a stolen vehicle on Highway 401 near London.
The Ontario Provincial Police said officers were able to locate the stolen vehicle in the westbound lanes of the highway near Putnam Road in Thames Centre on Sunday at around 8:40 p.m. Police then used a spike belt which brought the vehicle to a safe stop west of the Colonel Talbot Road overpass.
The driver had to be located using the OPP Canine Unit, while the passenger was arrested at the scene.
As a result, 19-year-old Nikoletta Bari of Scarborough is charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. As well, 24-year-old Drekwon Pitawanakwat of Toronto is charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, driving while under suspension, and failing to comply with recognizance.
The OPP has notified the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), which is now investigating the circumstances of the arrest.
While the OPP did not state if either of the accused men were injured during their arrest, the SIU will only investigate incidents involving police where there has been serious injury, death or allegations of sexual assault.
