Waikato Police seek two offenders after police car rammed

The following statement can be attributed to Waikato District Commander Superintendent Bruce Bird:

Police are seeking two offenders following an incident in Hikuai Settlement Road near Tairua last night.    Shortly before 10pm, a police officer identified two cars – one of which was believed to have been involved in a burglary at Cooks Beach on Sunday 27 August, and one which had been stolen in that burglary.   One of the cars stopped when signalled to do so by the officer.  As the officer was speaking to the occupant of  that car, the second car drove past, then reversed at speed towards the police officer.     The officer took cover behind his police car, however the offending driver rammed the police car several times.   Fearing for his safety, the officer fired at the offending driver’s car, hitting the rear window.    The occupant of the first car then got into the second car and both offenders fled in that car.   The car the offenders fled in is a Subaru Impreza, registration number ASY550. It was originally red in colour but has been spray-painted black.  It was last seen heading towards Thames on State Highway 25.   Police are appealing for any sightings of the car since 10pm last night, and would also like to hear from anyone who has information which will help us locate the two offenders.    Please contact Waikato Police on 07 858 6200.  Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.   ENDS   Issued by Police Media Centre.