Waikato Police are appealing for witnesses or people with information to come forward following an early morning attack on two officers in Ngaruawahia today.
Huntly Sub-Area Manager, Senior Sergeant Pete Simpson, said one Huntly and one Ngaruawahia officer were teamed up over a nightshift and were called to an a disturbance in Ngaruawahia about 12.40am.
"The pair had just cleared a domestic incident and turned on to Ellery St when they encountered a group of youths on the road who were just coming out from a party.
"As the officers were speaking to the youths, estimated to be about 35 strong, the group split into two of about 20 and 15 strong. As they were asking them to move on the smaller group turned on them."
Mr Simpson said one of the youths was armed with a pool cue which he used to attack the officers with while others pelted them with bottles and cans.
"One officer was hit in the back of the head with the cue and also suffered what appears to be a fractured eye socket with internal bleeding in his eye while his colleague has suffered quite a serious fracture to his hand. The officers used pepper spray to defend themselves during the incident.
"We're quite pleased, given the extent of their injuries the officers had the presence of mind to extract themselves from the scene while calling for back up as the group hadn't finished, venting their anger further on the pair's patrol car."
Due to the injuries to the staff and serious nature of the disorder additional Police staff were sent to Ngaruawahia to restore order.
Both officers were taken to Waikato Hospital for treatment but have since been released to recuperate at home.
The pair have been contacted by District Police management and have been assured of the ongoing support of their colleagues not only in the Waikato but from around the rest of the country.
Mr Simpson said at this time it was important those responsible were caught, not only for the peace of mind of the victims but to ensure no member of the public has to be confronted by such behaviour.
Anyone who witnessed the attack or who has any information on the identities or whereabouts of those involved is asked to contact the Huntly Police on 07 8287560. Alternatively information can be left anonymously on the confidential Crimestoppers crimeline, 0800 555111.
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