Officers who arrested man armed with a bomb win police bravery award – Police Bravery Awards 2014 – Winner (Wales Region)

October 17, 2014, 6:00 pm

Two North Wales Police officers have been awarded for their bravery after tackling and arresting an armed man who claimed he had a bomb on him.

Just 24 hours before the Olympic torch arrived in Wrexham, PC John Harrison and Sgt Gareth Davies demonstrated a fearless resolve, maintaining their composure to control the situation at the towns Guildhall on 29 May 2012.

The two officers have now won the Wales/Cymru region Police Bravery Award at a ceremony in central London attended by the Home Secretary, police minister Mike Penning and Met Police commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, among other dignitaries. They were presented with the award by Sir Hugh Orde, president, ACPO.

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Dozens of staff and visitors had been evacuated from the building when the officers arrived and the pair went into the building to find the bomber.

They searched the reception area with no success. Then, as Sgt Davies opened the double doors to a conference room, he found the man had erected a barricade and the officer found himself looking down the barrel of a pistol, just inches from his face.

After Sgt Davies ordered the man to put his weapon down, the suspect turned and walked out of sight.

The officers removed the barricade and went into the conference room.  PC Harrison used his Taser to red dot the offender and both officers shouted at him to drop the gun. He complied with their instructions and they were able to arrest him.

Earlier in the day, PC Harrison and Sgt Davies joined 64 of their colleagues from 31 forces round the country for a reception at 10 Downing Street with Prime Minister David Cameron as a mark of recognition for their heroic acts.

PC Harrison said:  “I am in total shock.  There are so many worthy people out there doing such a brave job.  We are part of that as well, its overwhelming.”

Steve White, chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: “I am constantly humbled and amazed by the selfless acts of bravery carried out by police officers on a day to day basis. For every act of courage and bravery recognised in the Police Bravery Awards there are hundreds more that occur in our communities every day that go unrecognised. Each nominee is a credit to the police service and to the community they serve.”

Stephen Mann, CEO, Police Mutual, said:  “Every day, police officers across the country face incredibly difficult and dangerous situations, acting with real heroism to protect the lives of others. All of the officers nominated for an award have shown great dedication to their duty and remarkable courage. Police Mutual is honoured to continue our sponsorship of the Police Bravery Awards for the sixth consecutive year and we give our sincere thanks to the men and women who keep us all safe.”