Two officers injured after police vehicles rammed during Antrim pursuits

Two police officers sustained minor injuries and several police vehicles were damaged after a car allegedly failed to stop for officers twice in the Antrim area on Sunday afternoon.

A 31-year-old man was arrested following two vehicle pursuits and a subsequent foot pursuit, with police saying a stinger device and vehicle tactics were used to bring the white SEAT Ateca to a controlled stop.

Vehicle failed to stop twice

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said the Ateca failed to stop for officers on two separate occasions on Sunday, 6 September.

Road Policing Interceptors joined colleagues from Road Policing and Antrim District Policing as officers searched the area for the vehicle.

Police said that during the second pursuit, the vehicle was “stung”, allowing officers to bring it to what they described as a “safe controlled stop” using vehicle tactics.

The driver then allegedly left the vehicle on foot but was detained a short distance away following a foot pursuit.

Police vehicles rammed and officers injured

According to the PSNI, a number of police vehicles were intentionally rammed during the pursuits.

The vehicles have been temporarily withdrawn from service while the damage is assessed and repairs are carried out.

Two officers sustained minor injuries but were able to continue their duties.

31-year-old man arrested

Police said the 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences, including:

• two counts of dangerous driving

• two counts of failing to stop

• driving while unfit

• driving while disqualified

• driving without insurance

• three counts of grievous bodily harm with intent

The PSNI also said the man was wanted on warrant.

He remains in police custody assisting officers with their enquiries.