A MAN has been charged with attempted murder after a serving police officer was assaulted in Harlow yesterday, Wednesday 7 September. 

Officers were called to reports of a disturbance in Station Approach, Harlow, at around 4pm.

It was reported a man was behaving in a threatening manner.

A number of officers arrived at the scene and one officer sustained an injury to his face. Thankfully, the injury is not life-threatening. 

A 21-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident. 

Ahmed Poka, 21, of Boxted Road, Colchester, has been charged with attempted murder, assaulting an emergency worker, racially aggravated public order and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

He is due to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Friday 9 September. 

Chief Inspector Paul Austin, Harlow district commander, said:

“Police officers work tirelessly and selflessly, to protect and serve the people of Essex. 
“But sadly, at times policing is a difficult and dangerous job and, on occasion, they are required to put themselves at risk in order to protect the public.”