Mercedes flees police in dramatic Melbourne CBD pursuit

Dramatic footage captures the moment a Mercedes Benz flees police after it was pulled over in the CBD. It comes as two off-duty cops are investigated over a pursuit.

CCTV footage has emerged of a Mercedes-Benz fleeing police after it was pulled over in the CBD on Saturday morning.

Victoria Police is investigating two 28-year-old officers, who were allegedly in a black Mercedes that sped off from police along William Street with three other men on board, sparking a pursuit by car and on foot.

Only two of the civilians have been identified by police but remained on the run last night, with the third’s identity still unknown.

Cabool unit officers — who patrol the CBD — pulled over a black Mercedes-Benz after identifying the car was unregistered. Police say the incident occurred about 3.30am.

Footage, which is time stamped at 4.15am, shows a black Mercedes-Benz coupe — worth an estimated $70,000 — with a green P-plate lodged in the front window, being pulled over by officers in a police station wagon with lights flashing

The Mercedes speeds away as the officers get out of their patrol vehicle.

But police were unable to confirm on Wednesday whether the Mercedes-Benz its officers pursued had a P-plate displayed.

The fleeing car ran a red light before stopping in Little Bourke Street where the five occupants fled on foot.

Chasing police quickly located one of the two off-duty officers. Drugs and drug paraphernalia were found after the chase.

The senior constable from northwest metro region has since been released and is expected to be charged on summons with drug possession. He has been suspended with pay.

Suspected illicit drugs obtained in the arrest are being tested.

The second officer, a probationary constable, who also allegedly dashed from the Mercedes, was found shortly after. That officer was spoken to in relation to the incident and was suspended with pay.

Investigations by the force’s Professional Standards Command are ongoing. The officers could face disciplinary action or criminal charges.

Former police chief commissioner Kel Glare said standards for joining the force were not high enough.

“There is or has been a problem because of the failure of recruiting,” he told Seven News. “Really it has been too easy to join, standards have not been high enough.

“I’m absolutely certain that under Shane Patton as chief commissioner there will be some changes in that regard.”

The police union said it was “concerned” about the incident. “As this matter is still under investigation, we will not be commenting further.”