Footage shows moment police arrest a would-be car thief after a quick-thinking owner locked him inside

Police have applauded a car owner after he locked a would-be thief inside his luxury BMW during an alleged attempted robbery.

Police have praised the quick-thinking actions of a Mount Coolum man who locked a would-be thief inside his BMW during an alleged attempted robbery, containing him until police arrived.

The owner of the BMW saw the man inside the car at his address on Spinnaker Drive, Mount Coolum, before locking him in and calling the police.

Police allege the 21-year-old Mount Coolum man had damaged the inside of the car by the time they arrived on scene around 5pm on Sunday.

It is further alleged a search of the man following his arrest uncovered drugs.

The man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence, possess utensils or pipes that had been used, and trespass – unlawfully enter or remain in dwelling or yard.

Sergeant Joel Bryant said he applauded the car owner’s “quick thinking”, containing the alleged offender until police arrived.

“I applaud the car owner’s quick thinking to lock the vehicle to keep the man contained, rather than confronting the man himself,” Sergeant Bryant said.

“It may not be safe to approach yourself, so we encourage you to always call police instead.

“The car that the man gained entry to was unlocked, which is an important reminder to always lock your vehicles, even when they’re parked in your driveway or insight.”

The man is expected to appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on August 5.