Two boys held after police are hit by car

Two boys are being held on suspicion of the attempted murder of armed police by ramming a group of officers with a car, Scotland Yard said today.

The pair, aged 14 and 15, were arrested after an incident in Battersea, south London, in the early hours, in which one officer was dragged along under a car and another went over the bonnet.

The alleged attack happened as an armed response team dealt with reports that a gang of men had been seen brandishing weapons.

The two officers hit by the car were taken to hospital with injuries described as non life-threatening.

One suffered heavy bruising and cuts to his leg and arm while the other had "impact injuries".

A further three police officers were hurt when the car involved in the alleged attack sped around the corner moments after the first two were injured and collided with a parked armed response vehicle.

Scotland Yard said the incident unfolded at around 1am when police received reports that a group of people had been seen with firearms outside Badric Court, off York Road in Battersea.

Armed police were dispatched to the scene and began searching.

As officers approached a black Honda Civic, with two occupants, in a car park on York Road, the driver revved the engine and drove at them from a few feet away.

Two officers were hit. Police said one fell under the car and was dragged a distance of around 6ft while his colleague went over the bonnet.

The Honda then made off on to Gwynne Road, where the second crash happened.

The youths were arrested and taken to separate police stations in the south of the capital where they are being held on suspicion of attempted murder.

The car was taken for forensic examination.

Assistant Commissioner Tarique Ghaffur said: "The role performed by our armed officers is vital in protecting the public and their colleagues from armed criminals.

"This incident shows the danger that all our officers can face as they carry out their duties protecting Londoners."

* Police are urging anyone with information to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.