Police have laid a raft of charges against a man who allegedly rammed a Police vehicle twice early this morning.
A white ute first came to Police’s attention at 4.30am after it was observed travelling at excessive speeds along Whangaparāoa Road, Manly.
Senior Sergeant Carl Fowlie, Waitematā North Area Response Manager, says the vehicle allegedly reached speeds of up to 100kmph in a 50kmph zone.
“A patrol unit signalled for the vehicle to stop but the driver ignored instructions.
“The driver then conducted a U-turn and rammed the patrol car before fleeing.”
The unit involved followed the driver towards Gulf Harbour before the vehicle turned and struck the patrol car head-on, causing significant damage
“The officer received moderate injuries and was transported to hospital where they are currently being assessed.
“The suspect then left his vehicle on Tiri Road and fled on foot,” Senior Sergeant Fowlie says.
Eagle tracked the man from above as he scaled nearby fences, keeping watch as the suspect threw items out of his satchel before abandoning the bag entirely.
The man attempted to flag down passing vehicles without success and he was quickly apprehended.
Officers retraced the man's steps and located the satchel and other discarded items, including methamphetamine, scales, and thousands of dollars in cash.
"This was an incredibly dangerous act which could have resulted in serious harm to the officer who was doing their job.
"Police have zero tolerance for reckless behaviour on our roads or towards our staff, and we will hold these offenders to account,” Senior Sergeant Fowlie says.
A 33-year-old man has been charged with reckless driving, aggravated failing to stop, injures with intent to injure - first responder, failed to stop and ascertain injury after crash, and possess methamphetamine.
ENDS.
Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police.
