A police officer sustained a suspected broken nose and other injuries after being attacked during an arrest in Maguiresbridge, County Fermanagh, in the early hours of Friday 3 July.

Officers on proactive patrol spotted a blue Audi stationary in the overtaking lane of the Belfast Road around 2.45am, with its hazard lights activated. They approached the vehicle to offer assistance and found the driver, who was the sole occupant, to be intoxicated.

A roadside breath test showed the driver was more than two and a half times the legal alcohol limit. The 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.

As the suspect was being placed in the rear of a police car, he struck out at an officer, attempting a headbutt. He then kicked violently, striking the constable in the face and potentially breaking his nose.

The man was further arrested on suspicion of assault on police and resisting arrest. Checks revealed the Audi had been reported stolen, leading to additional arrests for taking and driving away and driving without insurance.

The suspect remained in police custody on Friday afternoon. He was later released on bail pending further enquiries.

Chief Inspector Graham Dodds said the incident underlined the risks officers face in the course of their duties. He stated that the injured constable was receiving medical treatment and welfare support.