Berlin - An off-duty policeman at a Bavarian carnival spotted an on-the-run criminal disguised in a wig amongst the revellers and had him arrested, police announced on Tuesday.

The policeman, who had been volunteering at a sausage stall at the time, recognised the 35-year-old, who had gone on the run after being convicted of an assault.

The officer called for back-up from a colleague, whilst sending his grown-up son in pursuit of the criminal, who was caught and arrested.

The incident occurred in the southern town of Wuerzberg, and the convict is now in jail. (dpa)