A masked gang rammed a police car in a bid to flee a bungled shop burglary.

The raiders panicked when officers caught them in the act and blocked them in with their vehicle.

They tried to smash their way out, but when that failed they abandoned their getaway car – along with their masks and burglary equipment – and fled on foot.

The two officers gave chase but the suspects escaped, despite efforts by the police helicopter and dog units to track them down.

The gang was caught on CCTV making at least three separate attempts to break into 3C’s computer sales and repair shop in Idle Road, Undercliffe, Bradford, shortly before midnight yesterday.

Shop owner Mohammed Mazar said the raiders used crowbars to try to open the metal security shutters, but failed to get into the shop.

A neighbour spotted them and alerted police, who were on the scene in minutes while the intruders were still trying to break in.

Mr Mazar said: “The CCTV shows four people getting out of the car. They used crowbars to try to break the shutters, but didn’t get into the shop.

“Then the police arrived. There is only one way in and out of the premises and the police blocked them in. They got in their car and rammed into the police vehicle, but the police didn’t move, so they got out and ran off and the police chased after them. But they left behind their crowbars, balaclavas and phones.”

The Fiat Punto used by the suspects is believed to have been untaxed and uninsured. It is being examined by forensic experts.

The Punto, and the unmarked police Vauxhall Corsa, suffered only minor damage and nobody was hurt.

Mr Mazar may have to replace the damaged security shutter. He said the area had suffered a number of break-ins.

“It is becoming a nuisance,” he said. “There are a lot of business people round here working long days and we don’t need this. The police are doing what they can, but it is hard for us.”

Detective Inspector Richard Partis said: “The quick response of officers disturbed them in their activities.

“We would ask that any witnesses, or anyone with information about the individuals involved, contact us immediately. You can call us on the non-emergency number 101, or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.”