Croydon driver jailed after 130mph M25 police chase on nitrous oxide

A driver who led police on a high-speed chase from Croydon to the M25 while inhaling nitrous oxide has been jailed for 12 months. The incident occurred in the early hours of 3 March 2025, ending near Cobham Services on the M25 at approximately 2:20 am.

The Metropolitan Police released body-cam footage of the pursuit on 4 August 2026. The footage shows the driver reaching speeds of 130mph, driving on the wrong side of the carriageway, and inhaling nitrous oxide from balloons while evading police.

The pursuit and arrest

Police first attempted to stop the vehicle after reports of dangerous driving in south London. The driver ignored multiple police units and accelerated through a 20mph zone. The chase continued onto the A23, M23, and M25, where speeds exceeded 130mph.

Officers observed the driver turning off the vehicle’s lights and inhaling nitrous oxide during the pursuit. The chase concluded when police intercepted the car near Cobham Services. Body-cam footage captures an officer smashing the car window and ordering the driver to exit the vehicle.

During the arrest, the driver claimed to be suffering from depression and cited an alleged infidelity by his girlfriend as justification for his actions. An officer responded by questioning the appropriateness of his behaviour and calling him an "imbecile".

Court outcome and consequences

The driver was convicted at Guildford Crown Court for dangerous driving and failing to stop for police. On an unspecified date, the court sentenced him to 12 months in custody, imposed a driving disqualification, and issued fines. The Metropolitan Police confirmed no one was injured or killed during the pursuit.

The case highlights the risks of high-speed police chases on London’s roads. While no physical harm occurred, the incident prompted the release of footage to underscore the dangers of such behaviour. The driver’s actions were described as reckless by police involved in the arrest.

What happens next

The driver is currently serving a 12-month custodial sentence. The length of the driving disqualification and the total amount of fines imposed by Guildford Crown Court remain unclear. The Metropolitan Police have not indicated whether further action will be taken in relation to the nitrous oxide use during the chase.