A MAN accused of stealing cigarettes allegedly ran away from cops at Glasgow Airport. 

The Evening Times understands that the 31-year-old man was accused of stealing cigarettes from Tesco within the city airport.

The matter was drawn to the attention of airport police officers who then investigated the claim.

As they approached the man, it is alleged he assaulted the officers.

It is also alleged he ran off from the police officers, leaving the airport and running across a car park to get on the M8.

It is understood that police officers then caught up with him at the nearby M8 motorway.

He was arrested at the scene and due in court yesterday.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "It was around 7am on Saturday, August 19, police received a report of an alleged theft from Tesco at Glasgow Airport.

"A 31-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident.

"Following the incident the man ran off and was later apprehended by police officers.

"He has also been charged with alleged police assault."