Officer '˜lucky not to lose an eye' say PSNI

Police said that two people were arrested following the attack which happened at Mourne Road, Lurgan.

It is understood police were dealing with reports a 20-year-old man was being assaulted and a female stealing a car.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police in Lurgan arrested two people following an incident outside a shop on Mourne Road on Friday night, 8 January.

“Police received a report of a 20-year-old male being assaulted and a female driving off in his car shortly after 9pm.

“Officers attended and an 18-year-old female and 18-year-old male were arrested for assault on police, resisting arrest, disorderly behaviour, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage and taking a motor vehicle without authority.

“They were later released on bail pending further enquiries,” said a PSNI spokesperson.

“A police officer sustained facial injuries during the incident.

Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident or has information which may assist their investigation. They can be contacted in Lurgan on 101, quoting ref: 1096 080116.

The PSNI said: “Sadly though, keeping people safe often means stepping into that gap between law abiding members of the community and people wanting to do them harm. The officer pictured here sustained this injury on Friday night.

“This officer is fortunate to still have his eyesight intact.

“He continued on duty, and was back in yesterday (Saturday) to help keep Lurgan safe.

“This is the reality of policing sometimes, but it will take more than that to put us off.”