A disqualified driver who led police on a terrifying high-speed chase through Birmingham, reaching speeds of 100mph in a 40 zone and driving into oncoming traffic, has been sent to prison.
Reckless Flight from Police
Saiful Islam, 25, was already banned from driving when he was stopped by officers from the West Midlands Police Road Harm Team in the Saltley area on July 7 last year. After initially stopping and lowering his window, Islam ignored an officer's command to turn off his engine. Instead, he slammed his foot on the accelerator and fled the scene.
The ensuing pursuit saw Islam's driving descend into what police described as "extremely dangerous" behaviour. He raced along the A47 dual carriageway, consistently exceeding 100mph in a zone with a 40mph limit. In a particularly reckless manoeuvre, he swerved onto the opposite carriageway, forcing other road users to take evasive action to avoid a catastrophic head-on collision.
Failed Attempt to Deceive Officers
The chase eventually concluded near a recycling centre. In a desperate bid to avoid responsibility, Islam climbed into the back seat of his car and pretended to be a passenger. However, his ruse was immediately seen through by the pursuing officers, who had spoken to him directly and seen his face clearly during the initial stop.
Islam, of Bessborough Road in Yardley, was subsequently charged with dangerous driving and driving while disqualified. He was convicted at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, December 23.
Jail Sentence and Strong Police Message
The court handed down a 16-month prison sentence and banned Islam from driving for a further five years and eight months.
Commenting on the case, Sergeant Adrian Brown of West Midlands Police said: "This was extremely dangerous driving which could easily have resulted in the death of other road users, as well as the driver himself. Not only did he try to evade capture, he also tried to pretend he hadn't been driving at all."
"We're committed to making the roads of the West Midlands safer for all road users, and taking an individual like this off the road sends a strong message to those who would break the law," Sgt Brown added.
The force highlighted that the case forms part of Operation Hercules, an ongoing campaign targeting dangerous and anti-social driving, including illegal street racing and car cruising. Injunctions are in place across Birmingham and the Black Country, with breaches potentially leading to imprisonment, fines, or asset seizure.
