Man arrested after police car rammed in the city

The police in Derry/Londonderry have taken a 31-year-old man into custody on suspicion of several offenses in relation to an incident that occurred over the weekend. The individual is suspected of two counts of attempting to cause severe bodily harm through dangerous driving, operating a motor vehicle without insurance, operating a vehicle while disqualified, and failing to stop, report, and remain at the scene of an accident that caused injury. At this time, the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.

The police are requesting assistance from the public in obtaining information about the movements and whereabouts of the vehicle involved in the incident. Specifically, officers are seeking information from individuals who may have seen the vehicle, a maroon-colored Volvo S60 with registration UCZ 4284, on Skeoge Road, Buncrana Road, and Upper Galliagh Road prior to and following the incident. Additionally, it is believed that the vehicle may have been driven into County Donegal at some point after the incident.

Inspector Ryan Robb, of the Ballyarnett Neighbourhood Police Team, provided a statement regarding the incident. He stated, “Our officers sustained neck and arm pain as a result of this despicable incident, and we are fortunate we’re not dealing with more serious injuries. The officers were also left shaken by what happened.

“As enquiries continue, we’re keen to hear from anyone who believes they saw the vehicle involved to get in touch with us which, as a result of the incident, sustained substantial damage to its rear passenger side.

“In particular, we want to hear from anyone with dashcam who may have captured the vehicle being driven on Skeoge Road, Buncrana Road and Upper Galliagh Road prior to, and after this incident.”

Inspector Robb also highlighted the seriousness of this type of attack on police officers, stating, “Our officers work tirelessly to keep people safe. Attacks like these are unacceptable. Not only were the lives of two of our officers put at risk, there was also potential for serious harm for others in the area at the time. Additionally, our vehicle will be off the road for several weeks for repairs, which means we have one less car at our disposal to respond to incidents and help people when they call us.”

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the police by calling 101 and quoting reference 1932 of 13/01/23 or by submitting a report through the non-emergency reporting form on the PSNI website. Anonymous reports can also be submitted to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or through their website.