A man has been arrested after a police officer was slashed across the face with a bladed weapon in South Shields, South Tyneside. The incident occurred in the King Street area around lunchtime on Saturday.
Northumbria Police said two officers on duty sighted a person of interest and approached him. The man then assaulted one of the officers with a bladed article, causing cuts to his face. The injured officer was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm and remains in police custody. An increased police presence remains in the town centre as enquiries continue, but police say there is no wider risk to the public.
A force spokesperson said: 'Shortly before 12.35pm today, two officers on duty in the King Street area of South Shields sighted a person of interest. They approached the man who has then proceeded to assault one of the officers with a bladed article, causing cuts to his face.'
Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101, quoting reference NP-20260117-0424, or via their website or social media.
