Crime & Law

Three PSNI officers injured after trying to stop stolen car in west Belfast

A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of a number of offences

epa07261133 (FILE) - Northern Ireland's PSNI crest outside Antrim police station in Antrim, Northern Ireland, 02 May 2014 (reissued 04 January 2019). British media reports on 04 January 2019 state Police Service of Northern Ireland, PSNI has asked up to 1,000 officers to be deployed in Northern Ireland as a reinforcement in case of a no-deal Brexit. Authorities fear violence could occur if a hard border will be established between EU member Ireland and Northern Ireland. EPA/PAUL MCERLANE

A PSNI spokesperson said two officers were unable to continue their duties. Photograph: Paul McErlane

Thu Aug 24 2023 - 10:28

Three police officers have been injured after trying to stop a stolen car in Belfast.

A 38-year-old man has been arrested after a police car was rammed in the early hours of Thursday.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “While on patrol in the Falls Road area of west Belfast, shortly before 2.45am, officers attempted to stop a stolen vehicle.

“The driver tried to avoid police by mounting a footpath and then striking an officer’s arm before making off.

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“A short time later the vehicle was located in the Cluain Mór Close area where the driver then reversed into the patrol car multiple times causing injury to two officers.

“The man was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences, including driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs, failing to report an accident whereby injury was caused and failing to stop for police.

“He remains in police custody at this time.

“Two officers were unable to continue their duties.”

The spokesperson added: “This type of behaviour places members of the public and our officers at risk of serious harm and we are lucky not to be dealing with serious injuries.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have seen the white Vauxhall Mokka in the area, or who may have any information or dashcam footage that could assist with inquiries, to contact police via 101 quoting reference number 152 of 24/08/23.” – PA

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