Cops chasing a crook were left red-faced after their car ended up wedged front first in wooden decking.
The back of the vehicle was left sticking out of the platform.
A nearby sign clearly shows that cars aren’t allowed onto the decking.
READ MORE: Couple, 18 and 27, catch crooks trying to steal their car and beat them up
It warns that rule-breakers will be fined in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The car is the property of the Rio de Janeiro City Hall ‘Rio em Ordem’ – which translates as Rio in Order – project, as reported on Need To Know.
The vehicle belonged to the city hall but city police officers were in it.
They were on patrol in the area when a man approached them and said his bicycle had just been stolen.
They began pursuing the suspected thief yesterday (29 May) morning.
But shortly after driving onto the decking, several timber boards gave way and the car plunged bonnet-first into the void.
Local residents say the area is under renovation, partly due to the loose boards.
Despite this, they say it’s not uncommon to see vehicles driving on the decking.
Bebel Franklin of the Flamengo Residents and Friends Association told local media: “We’re always fighting for renovations, park inspections, and Municipal Guard presence.
“The institution’s own cars drive on the deck, which they’re not supposed to. It endangers people walking with pushchairs or children’s bikes.
“This endangers both workers and pedestrians. The problem is due to misuse and lack of enforcement.”
The local authorities say they had to drive onto the decking to pursue the bike thief.
It’s not clear if there were any injuries or any arrests.
READ MORE: Moment man shoots neighbour outside his home
