Story By: Sibel Abdiu, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Asia Wire Report

Video Credit: AsiaWire

This is the dramatic moment a suspected thief who attempts to jump from a bridge rather than face arrest is grabbed by a bystander seconds before Turkish police officers swoop in.

The incident was filmed by stunned residents in the district of Bayrakli in the western Turkish province of Izmir who are heard gasping as the dramatic events unfold.

In the footage, the 22-year-old suspected thief is seen standing on the other side of the railing, seemingly prepared to jump from the bridge, as a bystander approaches him.

Pictures Credit: AsiaWire

The suspect then appears to let himself go and the bystander grabs his waist before losing grip and then taking his hands.

The camerawoman is heard gasping as the brave resident clings onto the dangling suspect.

In that moment, two pursuing police officers arrive and assist the bystander.

More cops and residents help to drag the suspect back onto the bridge before he is detained by officers on the ground and taken away.

According to local media, the 22-year-old suspect, identified as B.A., was chased by officers after allegedly being caught stealing.

After a 15-minute dash through town, the man realised that he was about to be nabbed by the police and appeared to prefer suicide rather than being arrested, according to local media.

The suspect was taken to the police station where he was quizzed by officers.

There have been no further updates on whether the young man has been charged with committing a crime.

The investigation continues.