Eight people have been arrested and three Police officers were injured when they responded to multiple reports of fighting in the Linwood suburb of Christchurch including some reports of an axe being used at approximately 6.10pm today.
“Police received multiple reports of fighting in the Linwood area tonight. We responded to an address in Carnarvon St where there were approximately 20 people. Further Police teams arrived to provide backup a short time later” explained Christchurch Police Response Commander, Inspector Derek Erasmus
While Police officers were making an arrest, the officers were attacked by other people from the property resulting in more arrests being made.
“During the response three Police officers received head injuries and were taken to Christchurch Hospital A&E. One male officer was knocked out and remained unconscious for some time at the scene. He regained consciousness while being treated by Ambulance staff and is currently undergoing scans to ascertain the extent of any head injury. A male and female officer both with head injuries and lacerations received treatment and have been discharged.”
Six men were arrested and have been charged with varying offences including Assault with Intent to Injure, Assault on a Police Dog and Obstruction of Police. A 19 year old man is being held in custody and will appear in Christchurch District Court on Monday where Police intend to oppose bail. The other five men will all appear in Christchurch District Court over the coming week. Two youths were also arrested tonight and will be referred to Youth Aid.
Inspector Erasmus said “Police would like to thank the public for their quick action in reporting this incident to emergency services. We are committed to keeping the City and District safe and encourage anyone who sees anything suspicious or of concern in their community to contact Police straight away, as people did tonight.”
The injured officers are being supported by Police and their families.
Police investigations are ongoing.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404