POLICE officers were alerted to something fishy on Tuesday when the sign for the famous Riley’s Fish Shack, in Tynemouth, was reported stolen.
Northumbria Police launched an investigation and the search for the missing sign began.
Officers received information about a man who was spotted with the sign walking on Queens Street. Guided to the tracked location of the suspected thief, by an officer who is currently self-isolating and working from home, they were able to close the net and make an arrest.
Neighbourhood Inspector Nicola Seymour, from Northumbria Police, said: “This was a great response from our officers on the ground and one of our team who is self-isolating at home.
"It shows people that despite the current situation we remain strong and resourceful in our approach to policing and tackling crime.
“Thieves or anyone participating in criminal behaviour will still find themselves in handcuffs.”
A 44-year-old man arrested on suspicion of theft was released under police bail to appear at court at a later date.
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