Bystander tackles violent offender

File photo / NZ Herald

Police are grateful for the help of a mystery man who joined Auckland officers in chasing a violent offender before bringing him down in a tackle.

The shoeless bystander was shopping with his family in Mt Roskill on Boxing Day when police began chasing a man they had been seeking over a domestic violence incident.

Police said the good Samaritan saw what was happening, joined the chase, then tackled the offender and took him to the ground.

Police were able to handcuff the suspect and take him into custody without further incident.

When police tried to thank the tackler, he declined the chance for formal recognition and returned to shopping with his family, leaving with a handshake.

Inspector Kerry Watson said the suspect was in custody "due to the selfless action of our good Samaritan".

"He put himself in harm's way to get this dangerous man off the street."

"If he or his family would like to contact us on 09 571 2800, we would like to appropriately acknowledge him. "

A man will appear in court tomorrow charged with kidnapping, assault, wounding and injuring with intent involving three female victims, one of whom suffered a broken jaw.