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Suspect arrested after knife-wielding incident at Guildford Town Centre in Surrey

Click to play video: 'Bystander jumps in to help arrest suspected shoplifter in Surrey'
Bystander jumps in to help arrest suspected shoplifter in Surrey
WATCH: A warning from Surrey RCMP not to put yourself in harm's way. That's after a bystander jumped in to help arrest a suspected shoplifter, who was armed with a knife. Kristen Robinson has the story – Dec 25, 2016

A man pulling out a knife inside Guildford Town Centre in Surrey made for a frightening incident for Christmas shoppers.

Just before 7 p.m. Friday night, security was called to a store inside the mall after reports of a theft.

When they arrived, they tried to apprehend the suspect, but to no avail.

But when a bystander stepped in, the suspect pulled out a knife and started swinging.

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After several minutes of struggling, they were able to subdue him until police arrived.

Although the Good Samaritan who stepped in to help suffered a few cuts, he told Global News it was worth it.

But Sgt. David MacDonald with Surrey RCMP says there are dangers involved in that.

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“We never encourage anyone to put themselves at risk,” said MacDonald. “The situation can quickly develop into a situation, which is much worse and we never want the public to be put in harm’s way.”

MacDonald says they suggest videotaping the suspect from a safe distance and providing the pictures to police, so they can investigate and apprehend them in a safe environment for all concerned.

A 20-year-old man was arrested and is facing charges of theft, assault and possession of a weapon.

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