Why the security men or police let Authority to Arrest & Search Security personnel or police might sometimes let a suspect go if they are surrounded by a large crowd because of safety concerns, including the risk of a potential riot or the suspect getting seriously injured in the chaos, outweighing the immediate need to apprehend them; this is often considered a tactical decision to de-escalate the situation and prioritize public safety. Key reasons why they might let a suspect go in such a situation: Crowd control issues: A large, agitated crowd can quickly turn violent, making it difficult to safely secure the suspect and potentially putting innocent bystanders at risk. Risk of injury: Trying to forcefully apprehend a suspect in a crowded area can lead to accidental injuries to the suspect, officers, or civilians. Potential for escalation: A struggle in a crowded space can further incite the crowd, leading to a more dangerous situation. What might happen instead: Dispersing the crowd: Officers might prioritize dispersing the crowd to create a safe space to assess the situation and potentially apprehend the suspect later. Observation and identification: They might observe the suspect, gather identifying information, and attempt to apprehend them later when the situation is less volatile. Seeking backup: If the situation is deemed too dangerous, officers might call for additional support to better manage the crowd and secure the suspect. Important considerations: Severity of the crime: If the suspect is believed to have committed a serious crime, officers may still attempt to apprehend them even in a crowded situation, depending on the risk assessment. Local laws and procedures: Specific protocols regarding crowd control and suspect apprehension vary depending on the jurisdiction. Link .