Synai Saliu faced Wollongong Local Court on Friday afternoon charged with 10 offences stemming from the incident, including multiple counts of dangerous driving.

Police allege the 35-year-old was behind the wheel of a Subaru Forester that repeatedly fled from police, at times reaching speeds of up to 140km/hr while running red lights, repeatedly crossing to the incorrect side of the road, and at one stage, reversing in traffic.

Each of the pursuits were terminated for safety reasons and police ultimately lost track of the vehicle just before 9am, court documents said.

However, it is alleged police spotted the same vehicle five hours later stopped in traffic on Corrimal Street in Wollongong.

A fully-marked highway patrol car followed the vehicle to the corner of Flinders and Crown streets where police activated all their warning lights and sirens.

Saliu surrendered without incident. 

In court on Friday, defence lawyer Matt Ward said the difference in Saliu’s apparent behaviour from morning to afternoon was stark and raised concerns about his mental state at the time, noting he had a history of committing crimes while having psychotic episodes.

He sought Saliu’s release on bail however it was refused by Magistrate Susan McGowan, who said there were no conditions that could be put in place to mitigate the risk Saliu posed to public safety.

The case will return to court on February 23.