Police are investigating after a patrol vehicle was rammed by another car in west Belfast in the early hours of Wednesday 9 September, leaving one officer with a minor injury.

A dark-coloured VW Golf failed to stop for officers on Bell Steele Road at around 1am. The same vehicle was later seen in the Laurelbank area, where it rammed the front of the police car before making off towards Bell Steele Road. Damage was caused to the patrol vehicle and the three officers inside remained on duty.

Chief Inspector Kelly Gibson said: "Officers were on routine patrol in the Bell Steele Road area at approximately one am, when they signalled to another vehicle, a dark coloured VW Golf, to stop. "The car failed to do so, and made off. Officers then saw the vehicle again in the Laurelbank area, where it rammed the front of the police vehicle, resulting in damage being caused to the front of it.

"The Golf then made off in the direction of the Bell Steele Road.

"The injured officer, together with two other officers who were also travelling inside the vehicle, were able to remain on duty.

"Our enquiries are ongoing this morning in relation to this incident, and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed what happened, or who has any information, to get in touch.

"The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 42 of 09/09/26."

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.