Officer breaks leg in Bermondsey arrest tussle

A policeman broke his leg in two places during a struggle with a suspected drink-driver early today.

The officer chased a man who was seen running away from a black Volkswagen Golf that police were following after it went through a red light in Dunton Road, Bermondsey, south east London, at around 1am.

The policeman broke his leg while struggling with the man on the ground as he tried to arrest him.

His colleague was attempting to stop three others from leaving the car, which had stopped in Buttermere Close, Bermondsey.

More officers arrived and a 26-year old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a class A drug, assault with intent to resist arrest, and drink-driving.

The injured officer was taken to a central London hospital where he remains in a stable condition. A Scotland Yard spokesman said he will need surgery on his broken leg.

Chief Superintendent Wayne Chance, the borough commander for Southwark, said: "I am proud of all my officers who put themselves at risk every time they go on duty to ensure the safety of Southwark's communities.

"It is always upsetting when one of them is injured.

"Everyone on the borough wishes this officer a speedy recovery and he will be offered all the support he needs to get back to full health and back on duty."

Two other men were arrested at the scene on suspicion of possession of class A and B drugs.

The three arrested men remain in custody. Police are looking for a fourth man.

PA