Serious Assault of Auckland Taxi Driver

Shortly after 4.30pm a taxi driver was assaulted with a blunt object and his taxi stolen.

A patrol located the stolen taxi at a Mt Albert address and a pursuit ensued. The police helicopter observed the stolen taxi and all patrols were pulled back. Whilst being followed by the helicopter, the stolen taxi was seen driving along railway lines.

When the vehicle returned to the road the vehicle drove over spikes deflating several tyres. The taxi rammed a police patrol and continued on.

Whilst the taxi was stationary, police patrols blocked the taxi in and called on the offender to surrender. The offender assaulted the two officers and a taser unit was deployed resulting in the offender being taken into custody without injury.

The taxi driver has minor injuries to his neck and is under observation at Auckland Hospital.

The offender is assisting police with enquiries. He will be appearing in the Auckland District Court Thursday morning.

No further comment will be made