A WOMAN was saved by a quick-thinking police staff member after she called 999 ‘to order a pizza’ in an intense incident.

The incident happened yesterday evening in York (April 5) when North Yorkshire Police received a 999 call, but when it was answered, the woman on the line said she wanted to order a pizza.

After this, the call handler immediately asked the woman if she was in trouble, which she confirmed by saying “yes.”

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Although the woman was only able to answer “yes” and “no” to questions, Police say they were able to establish that she was on a bus in North Yorkshire, and was at risk of harm from a man who was with her.

While keeping the phone line open, the call handler was also able to text her for more information.

Officers managed to locate the bus using an online tracker and stop it in York.

A 40-year-old man from Leeds was arrested after in connection with the incident, but he was released with no further action.

Police say the woman has been provided with safeguarding and support.

Inspector Dan Spence, force incident manager at North Yorkshire Police’s Control Room, said he “aware of people using the ‘pizza ordering’ technique abroad” but could not recall a “similar call in North Yorkshire.”

He said: “This was really good work by everyone involved, allowing us to take immediate action to safeguard a vulnerable woman. 

“I’m aware of people using the ‘pizza ordering’ technique abroad to contact the police, but I cannot recall a similar call in North Yorkshire.”

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According to police all 999 calls are directed to call centres and answered by BT operators and they will ask which service you need.

If no service is requested but anything suspicious is heard throughout the process the operators will connect you to a police call handler.

Police have warned that it is always best to speak to the operator if you can, even by whispering.

People may also be asked to cough or tap the keys on your phone in response to questions.

The police call handler will attempt to communicate with you by asking simple yes or no questions.

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If you are not able to speak, listen carefully to the questions and instructions from the call handler so we can assess your call and arrange help if needed.

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