By Q Radio News
Two police officers have been injured and a patrol car damaged in Crossmaglen.
A dark blue Transit-type van was approached in the Corrasmoo Road area of Cullaville at around 11:20pm last night before it sped off and rammed the police vehicle while an officer was getting out.
He sustained wrist and back injuries while a colleague suffered leg and arm injuries.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Commander, Superintendent Norman Haslett described the incident as ''reckless''.
A dark blue Transit-type van rammed a police car in the Corrasmoo Road area of Crossmaglen at around 11:20pm last night.
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) March 12, 2021
Two officers have been injured in the incident which has been condemned as 'reckless'. pic.twitter.com/PKHWqnoW1c
''These were officers from the local Policing team in Crossmaglen who were carrying out their duties to keep people and the community safe,'' he added.
''Unfortunately, due to the nature of the injuries sustained by our officers, they have been unable to return to duty today.
“We have also had to take the police vehicle off the road so it can be examined for road worthiness, which affects our service delivery.
''There is also the impact in terms of our officers and their welfare, as well as the cost of repairs to the vehicle.
"We are working to locate both the van and the driver involved in this cowardly incident and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area and witnessed the incident, or has information which may assist us, to call us. The number to call is 101, and quote reference number 1888 of 11/03/21."