A policeman has been stabbed in the back near a children’s playground.
The officer was on patrol in Stamshaw park, Portsmouth when the incident occurred just after midday on Thursday.
He has been rushed to hospital via air ambulance, though his injuries are said to be non life threatening.
A police officer has been stabbed in Stamshaw Park today, whilst on patrol in Newcomen Rd.
He's been taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. His NOK have been informed.
We don't believe there's any wider risk to the community.
Visit https://t.co/7nKMkqnnOG. pic.twitter.com/OMIepN7PYN
— Hampshire Police (@HantsPolice) February 21, 2019
A man has been arrested in connection with the incident and investigations are ongoing, but Hampshire Police confirm there is no wider risk to the community at this time.
Portsmouth City Council said the playground in Stamshaw Park had been closed until further notice.
We're very sorry, but Stamshaw adventure playground is closed until further notice, following a serious incident close nearby. We'll update you as soon as we can.
— portsmouthtoday (@portsmouthtoday) February 21, 2019
Local Labour MP Stephen Morgan spoke of his concern on the incident on Twitter.
He said: “Concerned to learn of stabbing of a police officer. Portsmouth’s police put their uniform on and stand in harm’s way to keep our communities safe.”
Concerned to learn of stabbing of a police officer. Portsmouth’s police put their uniform on and stand in harm’s way to keep our communities safe. Grateful to @PompeyPolice District Commander for briefing me on and reassuring there is no wider risk to the community at this time
— Stephen Morgan MP (@StephenMorganMP) February 21, 2019
Anyone who saw what happened or has any information about the incident is asked to call us on 101, quoting 44190063033.
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