A police officer sustained injuries to his hand and foot while apprehending an alleged burglar at a residence in Kolomotu’a on Sunday, 15 December.

Tonga Police staed that the policeman was responding to a call for help during a burglary.

When the policeman arrived at the residence, the alleged burglar, a 33-year-old male from Kolomotu’a, had locked himself in a room and refused to come out.

But the policeman managed to access the room and while trying to make the arrest, he was attacked by the alleged burglar with a pair of scissors and a piece of timber.

The accused was also armed with a machete and surrendered himself when the armed Police Tactical Response Group, who were called to assist, arrived at the scene.

The injured police officer was taken to hospital where he received several stitches for the injuries, before being released.

Tonga Commissioner of Police, Stephen Caldwell “recognized the bravery and dedication of the young officer and the immediate and professional response of the Police Tactical Response Group”.

He also thanked the home owner for coming to the aid of the police officer and tending to his wound during the incident.

“With alcohol and drug use on the rise, the risk to the safety of police officers has also increased,” he said.

“A review of our staff safety has been completed,” 

“Training and equipment to ensure better protection for our officers, supported by NZ Police through the Tonga Police Development Program will commence in the New Year.”

The burglar has been charged with assault, bodily harm and housebreaking and remains in police custody.