A POLICE officer was injured during the arrest of a Thurrock youngster who attempted to evade capture but was rugby tackled by a member of the public.

The incident happened last week in Purfleet and shortly afterwards officers involved posted this on social media: "The rider of this e-scooter tried to evade us, didn't want his manbag of drugs found and chose to assault our officer and kick him whilst on the ground.

"A brave member of public aided our officer and rugby tackled the assailant resulting in 1 in custody on suspicion of the supply of drugs and assaulting an emergency worker.

"A massive thank you to that member of public, your bravery and assistance really is appreciated."

A statement from Essex Police says: "Officers stopped a teenage boy in London Road, Purfleet on 19 January and carried out a drug search.

"During the incident an officer reported being assaulted.

"A 17 year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs other than Class A, assaulting an emergency worker, and criminal damage.

"He has since been released under investigation."