Leicestershire Police has blasted a prankster who misused the 999 emergency service by claiming that an armed response was needed for a “gorilla” causing a commotion in Coalville town centre.
The timewaster, described as a “bored teenager”, made the hoax call, prompting the police to release the audio to highlight the serious misuse of the emergency line.
In the released recording, the young prankster is heard jesting: “There’s a gorilla, yeah, raping a monkey in the precincts of Coalville.”
When asked for personal details, he responds with: “I aint got a phone, I’m ringing off one of those machines thingies.”
He adds nonchalantly: “I’ve forgotten where I live because I’m on loads of cocaine.”
Persisting with his false claim, he requests: “Can you send armed police to the precinct please?”.
Addressing the folly, the call-handler firmly states: “It’s not a good joke, just so you know.”
She continues rebukingly, “It’s not funny at all. You’re ringing 999, so this is taking up a slot of somebody that actually needs help.”
On social media, the force took the opportunity to educate the public, posting on Facebook: “We recently received a prank call reporting a gorilla in Coalville.
“Whilst it might seem funny to some, it’s crucial to remember that these calls can prevent real emergencies from being addressed promptly.
“Let’s use this as a reminder to only call our 999-emergency line when it’s absolutely necessary.
“Every second counts in an emergency.”
