Gareth Wilson condemns 'reckless driving' after police pursuit in Newry

Newry and Armagh MLA Gareth Wilson has condemned the reckless driving that led to a late-night police pursuit in the Newry area and has wished the injured officers a full and speedy recovery.

Mr Wilson was commenting after a lorry allegedly failed to stop for police before being driven at speed through the Warrenpoint, Newry and Rostrevor areas. Three police officers were injured when a police vehicle was struck during the incident. Mr Wilson commented:

'This was an extremely serious incident which could easily have resulted in far more severe consequences for police officers, other road users or pedestrians.

Residents will be alarmed to hear that a heavy goods vehicle was allegedly driven at speed, on the wrong side of the road and collided with a police vehicle during the course of this pursuit.

Police officers put themselves in harm's way every day to keep our communities safe, and I want to wish the three injured officers a full and speedy recovery.

Anyone who believes they may have witnessed any part of this incident, or who has relevant dash-cam footage, should provide that information to the PSNI without delay to assist their ongoing investigation.

Sadly, the ramming of police vehicles in an attempt to escape justice is an all too common occurrence. I am currently investigating legislative options to strengthen the consequences for those who endanger officers in this way. It is clear there must be sufficient deterrents for this kind of reckless behaviour.'