Motive behind alleged attack on Canterbury policeman a mystery

Two men and a woman were arrested on Monday night and appeared in the district court on Tuesday. Photo / File

By Andrew King

Detectives are investigating whether an alleged attack on a police officer at his home was a case of mistaken identity or something more sinister.

Two men and a woman were arrested on Monday night and appeared in the district court on Tuesday after the incident in Charteris Bay.

It's alleged Ngarie Maree Sadlier, 38, approached the property impersonating a police officer at 10.28pm while Norton Lindsay Adams, 26, and Matthew Winara Webber, 28, waited outside.

It's alleged when the officer came outside to see what was going on he placed Sadlier under arrest for trespassing.

A scuffle then ensued, with Adams and Sadlier allegedly attacking him. They escaped in a vehicle driven by Adams, but were arrested a short time later.

A shotgun was found concealed in a guitar case in the boot - ammunition had allegedly been thrown from the vehicle during the chase.

Police have alleged all three have gang affiliations. Police have not ruled out the attack could be targeted and have launched an investigation, Canterbury Metro Commander Superintendent Lane Todd said.

He confirmed to The Star they are exploring the gang angle and if it was mistaken identity or a targeted attack.

District Commander Superintendent John Price said he hoped it was random rather than targeted.

"I have spoken to the officer involved and he is obviously shaken up," he said.

Adams was remanded in custody charged with failure to stop, reckless driving, aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Sadlier, whose occupation is listed as a scientist, was released on bail charged with aggravated assault, trespass, escapes custody, impersonating police, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Webber, a construction worker, was charged with wilful damage and unlawful possession of a firearm.

All three will reappear on July 25 in the district court..