A MAN is being questioned after he smashed through a police checkpoint, injuring five officers and damaging two cars, one extensively.

Police say that at around 8.40 pm yesterday, Monday, 15 January, officers received a report that a car had been stolen from premises in the Castlewellan Road area of Newcastle. 

Police responded to the call and set up a vehicle check point on the Moygannon Road, Warrenpoint.

Officers attempted to stop the stolen vehicle at a vehicle checkpoint, however the driver failed to stop and collided with two police vehicles.

Five police officers received minor injuries as a result.

Two police vehicles were damaged, one of them extensively

A 29 year old man was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including aggravated taking and driving away, dangerous driving, and possession of an offensive weapon.

He is currently in police custody.

Inspector Nigel Henry said: “This was excellent work from our officers and a prime example of police working to keep the community safe.

“I would ask anyone who has any information about crime of any sort to contact police on the non-emergency number 101.

“Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”