Police used a Taser to subdue an offender today after a taxi driver was assaulted and his vehicle stolen.
Eventually they had to use road spikes to try to stop the stolen taxi.
Inspector Kerry Watson, of Auckland police, said the taxi driver was hit with a blunt object shortly after 4.30pm and was now under observation at Auckland Hospital. He has minor injuries to his neck.
A police patrol later spotted the stolen taxi at a Mt Albert property and gave chase.
"The police helicopter observed the stolen taxi and all patrols were pulled back," Mr Watson said.
While being followed by the helicopter, the stolen taxi was seen driving along railway lines, he said.
When the stolen vehicle returned to the road it was driven over the spikes, deflating several tyres. The taxi then rammed a police vehicle and continued on.
When the taxi stopped police patrols blocked it 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," Mr Watson said.
A man is expected to appear on a variety of charges in Auckland District Court tomorrow morning.
- NZPA
Police taser attacker after taxi stolen, driver assaulted
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