FOUR police officers were attacked while on duty in two quick-fire incidents.

Shortly after 1am on Saturday, October 17 police were called to Fordfield Road, in Sunderland, after a man was seen trying to break into a white Transit van.

Officers were on the scene within seven minutes and arrested a man who matched the caller’s description nearby but the 42-year-old became violent and threw punches at the two male officers in attendance – breaking one of their hands.

At about 7pm that night, two PCs stopped a man, matching the description of a burglary suspect, in the Elizabeth Street area of Houghton-le-Spring.

The suspect was found to be in possession of a controlled drug and became extremely aggressive and assaulted the officers. The male officer suffered a suspected broken finger as a result of the attack, while the female PC suffered bruising to her face and legs.

A second suspect was arrested nearby on suspicion of being in possession of a controlled drug.

Superintendent Barrie Joisce, of Northumbria Police, condemned both attacks and has praised the officers involved for their bravery and dedication while on duty.

Supt Joisce said: "It is extremely disappointing that four of our officers were injured after being assaulted on Saturday when dealing with two separate incidents.

“On both occasions, a suspect has become aggressive when stopped and has decided to violently assault our officers during their course of duty.

“This type of behaviour simply will not be tolerated. Officers come to work each day to protect the communities they serve and help people – but clearly in their roles, they know they could be faced with dangerous situations.

“However, such violence and hostility almost beggars belief and it is absolutely vital that anyone who attacks emergency service personnel is brought to justice.

“I would like to praise the bravery of all four officers involved – they have shown an outstanding dedication and professionalism in putting public safety before their own, and I would like to thank each of them for their exemplary conduct during incredibly difficult circumstances.”

Investigations are ongoing into both incidents.

The 42-year-old man arrested on Fordfield Road has been released on police bail, while the two men arrested on Elizabeth Street remain under investigation.