A Police officer's fast feet has stopped thieves in their tracks

A regular patrol of Manukau Westfield's carpark quickly took a turn when a group of young people, carrying handfuls of clothing, were seen sprinting from the mall on Wednesday afternoon.

The officer swiftly parked his car and began chasing the alleged offenders.

When the group thought they were in the clear, they boarded a stationary bus - however the officer was right on their tail, hopping on to prevent them from escaping.

Around eight offenders, all aged between 10 and 15 years, were all apprehended and the items were returned.