Waitemata Police are commending the actions of an officer assaulted yesterday while trying to apprehend a man following a fleeing driver incident in South Auckland.
Police are still reviewing the incident, in which the motorcycle officer sustained minor injuries during a physical struggle with a man who had earlier failed to stop for Police in Manukau.
“The officer has sustained minor injuries and is now taking a few well-deserved days off work,” says Waitemata District Commander, Superintendent Bill Searle. “He has shown real courage and commitment in apprehending this offender to prevent further risk to others, and his actions should be commended."
The incident occurred around 3pm yesterday, after the officer pursued the fleeing driver in an allegedly stolen vehicle which had failed to stop in Manukau. The vehicle was subsequently abandoned in Otara, and the man fled on foot. He was then chased by the officer and a physical struggle followed, during which it’s alleged the man attempted to strangle the officer. After a brief further chase on foot, the officer was able to apprehend and restrain the man until help arrived.
"While the officer's injuries were minor, no assault on our staff is ever acceptable. Therefore, as is routine with all critical incidents, we'll be reviewing it to identify whether there are any lessons that can help inform our response to future incidents,” Supt Searle says.
A 41 year old man has since been arrested and charged with aggravated injury, unlawfully using a motor vehicle, failing to stop and dangerous driving.
ENDS
Shelley Nahr / Communications Manager
021 595 562