The 47 year-old Police Constable attacked and stabbed by a 38 year-old knife-wielding man at about 10.20 in Orakei this morning, will undergo surgery to his face this afternoon.
The Newmarket Station officer's injuries were caused by a long-bladed knife when he was attacked while speaking with the alleged offender who then turned his attention on the victim's two colleagues who managed to evade him.
A fourth officer, who had joined the Police search for the offender and who later discharged the taser that resulted in the man's arrest in Mission Bay's Patteson Ave at 10.45am, was also threatened by the armed man but did not suffer any injuries.
Acting Auckland City District Commander, Inspector Jim Wilson, says he's proud of the way staff acted quickly and safely to apprehend the man without there being any further injuries to anyone.
"The area in the vicinity of the stabbing in the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park was quickly swamped with staff, some of whom were armed, while the Police Eagle helicopter was above to provide information to land staff.
"Within 25 minutes, a dangerous man was safely arrested and removed from the areas where he had earlier been abusive and confrontational to members of the public.
"This man has since been assessed by mental health experts and will appear in the Auckland District Court tomorrow charged with three counts of assault with a weapon and one of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm."
A scene examination has failed to turn up the weapon used against the wounded officer so Auckland City CIB is appealing to anyone who finds a discarded knife or any other items that might be of interest, to contact them on 09 524 1921.
MEDIA NOTE: A briefing will be held at Auckland Central Police Station today at 3pm. Please assemble at the Cook St Public Counter by 2.50pm
ENDSIssued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
Website: www.police.govt.nz