Big tortoise found strolling in LA suburb

Alhambra - At least officers didn't have to issue a speeding ticket when they spotted a giant tortoise ambling down a street suburban Los Angeles.

The Alhambra Police Department joked on its Facebook page that the 68kg reptile was captured on Saturday afternoon after a brief pursuit.

"The tortoise did try to make a run for it; but, our officers are pretty fast," the post said.

It took two officers to heft the hard-shelled creature into a patrol car. They then took the reptile to the local police station before turning it over to animal control authorities.

Giant tortoises are not indigenous to the Los Angeles area.

Police are asking anyone with a big tortoise that went missing this weekend to contact them. They aren't sure if this one escaped or was abandoned by its owner.

Police say this particular reptile has some distinctive markings. They aren't revealing them for the time being, however, to ensure that whoever claims the tortoise is its rightful owner.