Incident Overview

A 26-year-old man was arrested⁣ after two Police service ⁣of Northern Ireland ‌(PSNI) officers​ were injured when their vehicle was ⁤deliberately rammed in⁣ the⁤ Ballymagorry area near Strabane, County⁢ Tyrone, on September 20, ⁣2024. The incident‍ followed an earlier report of‌ a collision in the Newbuildings area of Derry/Londonderry.

According to PSNI Chief⁣ inspector Michael Gahan, officers initially ⁤received a report of a collision at approximately ⁣12:45 PM involving a blue Ford van. The‌ van afterward drew police attention ⁢near Ballymagorry.

Details of the Ramming and Assault

Chief Inspector Gahan ⁣stated that officers attempted to stop the van, but the driver accelerated towards the police vehicle, resulting in​ a head-on collision. The driver then exited the‌ vehicle and physically assaulted both officers at the scene. He was subsequently restrained and arrested.

The arrested man faces multiple charges, including driving-related offenses, assault on police, and resisting⁤ arrest. Both​ officers received medical treatment at the scene​ and were later taken to the ⁤hospital for their injuries. the police vehicle sustained notable damage.

Community‌ Response and ‍Police Statement

Chief Inspector Gahan emphasized that police officers should not ‍be subjected⁢ to assault while performing⁤ their duties. He​ stated, “Our officers put ⁤themselves ​on the⁣ front line to ‍help keep peopel safe -‍ thay do not⁤ deserve to be assaulted for⁣ doing their jobs and​ in this case, attempting to stop a dangerous driver ⁢on our roads.”

Two ‌members of ‌the public were commended for their bravery in stopping to ​assist ⁢the officers. Chief Inspector Gahan praised their ​”true community​ spirit” and admirable intervention during challenging circumstances.

The PSNI is providing support and welfare measures to the injured officers as the investigation continues. Anyone with information related to the ‍incident‌ is urged to contact the police.