Police intervention in Kamnik: driver fled on unregistered motorcycle, complaint of excessive force follows
Police have clarified the circumstances of video clips from Kamnik showing a police officer restraining a motorcycle driver. The driver fled from police, fell and resisted arrest.
Police in Kamnik reveal background to viral video clips
The Ljubljana Police Directorate has clarified the circumstances of a police intervention in Kamnik, whose video clips have circulated widely on social networks in recent days and divided public opinion. According to Žurnal24, an adult driver was operating an unregistered motor vehicle and attempted to flee from police officers.
A police motorcyclist spotted the driver during a traffic control operation in the Kamnik area and began signalling him to stop with blue lights and sirens activated. The driver did not comply with the clear signals to stop and continued driving.
From the main road, the driver turned into a side street, where he fell in a bend due to excessive speed. "While manoeuvring, he fell in the bend due to excessive speed, allowing the police officer to catch up with him," stated the Ljubljana Police Directorate.
Resistance and use of restraint measures
Even after falling, the driver did not comply with the police officer's commands and attempted to flee on foot from the scene. "He did not comply with the clear commands and signals from the police officer to stop, and throughout the procedure actively resisted, which is why the police officer used restraint measures against him," the Ljubljana Police Directorate announced.
The driver sustained minor injuries. According to police statements, his injuries were "a consequence of falling from the motorcycle and not the use of restraint measures". The police officer was not injured during the procedure.
The video clips show a police officer restraining a person wearing a helmet on the road, with a blue motorcycle lying nearby. After the arrival of the first police officer, approximately ten police officers gathered at the scene, and the area was cordoned off with police tape.
Investigation into procedure legality
Following the publication of the video clips, accusations of excessive force appeared on social networks. Police announced a thorough review of events. "Police will thoroughly examine all circumstances of the police procedure and assess the legality and professionalism of the use of restraint measures," stated the Ljubljana Police Directorate.
Police officers at the scene are conducting an inspection and continuing to gather information due to suspected criminal offence of obstructing official action. Proceedings regarding a misdemeanour have also been initiated against the driver.
Local residents warn of dangerous driving
Some Kamnik residents came to the police officers' defence. One local told Žurnal24 that for some time they have observed noise and dangerous driving with scooters, dirt bikes and modified motor vehicles in this area. "It is right that they finally took action," he said regarding the police intervention.
Police have not yet confirmed whether the driver involved in this procedure was connected to any of the previous incidents highlighted by local residents.
Source: Žurnal24