Police name youth wanted over bottle attack

Police have released the name of a youth they are seeking in relation to an incident in which a police officer was hit with a bottle in Te Awamutu last night.

The officer had a full bottle of alcohol slammed into the side of his face as he tried to catch three people suspected of stealing alcohol from a local liquor outlet.

The officer was hospitalised with significant facial injuries. He was released today but police said he may require surgery.

Detective Sergeant Ross Patterson said police had caught up with two of three people they were seeking in relation to the incident but were looking for Solomon Eric Akulu, also known as Marley Kaponga.

Mr Patterson said there were outstanding warrants for the arrest of the 17-year-old after he failed to appear in court.

He said the two people apprehended were helping police with their inquiries.

- NZPA