Asthmatic Qld thief saved by police

Queensland police officers who pulled a thief from a Gold Coast canal after his bungled escape attempt saved his life and dignity, says commissioner Ian Stewart.

The 34-year-old man had allegedly attempted to shoplift from Myer at Pacific Fair shopping centre in Broadbeach Waters on Thursday evening.

A search was launched when he jumped in a nearby canal - but it didn't last long as the man suffered an asthma attack after swimming 700m.

Two officers were forced into the water to rescue him.

Commissioner Stewart said the pair had put themselves at risk for the sake of the community.

"I'm very grateful to them and I thank them for that. But I'd ask the community to think about what you're doing, instead of putting our officers and themselves at risk," he said on Friday.

"They've jumped in and pulled him out - so saved his life, or perhaps at least saved his dignity."

The 34-year-old was handed a notice to appear before court for stealing and obstructing police.