Sole charge police officer at Kaeo attacked while arresting a male at Matauri Bay that was assaulting another male. Incident took place at 2.30 am on 26 December 2010.

Police called to a report of fighting/disorder at Matauri Bay. Officer arrived and found people on the road that had obviously been consuming alcohol and acting in a disorderly manner.

The officer arrested a 19 year old male who was assaulting another male and, as he struggled with his offender, the officer was set upon by 2 other males.

One of those males obtained a police baton and struck the officer across the head, causing a large cut to his head. The arrested male and the other two males then punched the officer about the head and body, causing a cut above his left eye and bruising and swelling to his face. A briefcase was stolen from the patrol vehicle while the attack took place.

The officer required medical treatment and received stitches to his head. He is recovering at home.

To date police have arrested a 17 year old male with wounding with intent to do GBH, and a 19 year old male with assault with intent to injure and aggravated assault. Both men had consumed considerable amounts of alcohol on the night.

Police enquiries are continuing to establish the identity of the 3rd male who took part in the attack and recover the briefcase. Anyone with information should contact the Kerikeri Police Station.

Peter ROBINSON
Senior Sergeant
KERIKERI

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