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Swiss diplomat caught after drunken car chase through Paris streets

A Swiss ambassador to the Paris-base OECD was arrested after a drunken car chase with police through the streets of the French capital on Sunday night, police sources say. He has claimed diplomatic immunity to avoid charges being placed.

Paris by night
Paris by night DR
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During the course of routine speed checks, police in central Paris tried to stop a Mercedes with diplomatic plates that was speeding through the city streets late on Sunday night.

But the driver refused to stop, racing off into nearby streets with the police in hot pursuit.

When he was finally cornered, he drove directly towards the police, the source says, forcing one officer to shoot out one of his tyres.

Although he continued his Hollywood-style attempt to escape, he was caught within a matter of minutes.

He then claimed diplomatic immunity but was unable to prove his identity and underwent an alcohol test that reportedly showed him well over the limit.

He was later released, after being taken to a police station where his identity was confirmed by the Swiss embassy to Paris.

Although he cannot be charged in France because of his diplomatic status, Paris can ask Switzerland to take action.

The Swiss delegation to the OECD has refused to comment.

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