A MAN who made off when issued with a European Arrest Warrant is awaiting extradition after a police pursuit.

Armed police and the force helicopter joined the search for the man last night in the Southbourne area.

The helicopter was in the Beaufort Road area for more than half-an-hour after taking to the skies at 9.45pm.

At the time, a spokesperson for Dorset Police refused to comment except to say inquiries were ongoing.

However, this morning, it was confirmed that the man was chased by police officers through the streets.

“Officers attended an address on Arnewood Road in Bournemouth at 9.20pm last night, September 18, to execute a European Arrest Warrant issued by a court in Greece,” a spokesperson said.

“The male subject of the arrest warrant made off from police when they attempted to serve it on him. A thorough search ensued, assisted by the NPAS helicopter.

“At approximately 10.20pm a 30-year-old man was detained and is in police custody now awaiting extradition.”

It is believed that the man climbed out of a skylight window onto a roof and then fled via neighbouring rooftops.