AN off-duty cop has been stabbed after he tried to stop a robbery outside a shopping centre.
The hero officer was knifed with a “large machete” in the daylight attack when he tried to stop two men nicking someone’s moped in Luton, Beds.
Emergency services scrambled to Luton Point in George Street around 1.10pm on Saturday.
The officer, from the Met Police, was savagely stabbed before the offenders fled on one of their own mopeds and the stolen one.
The brave cop was then rushed to hospital where he is still being treated for injuries which are not thought to be life-threatening.
Both suspects are described as being in their early 20s, say Bedfordshire Police.
One was wearing a black jacket and trousers, while the other wore a dark-coloured jacket and grey tracksuit bottoms with a white strip down the side.
It is understood the robbery victim left the scene following the “brazen attack” – with detectives now desperately wanting to locate him.
Cops are now appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
Chief Constable Dan Vajzovic said: “The courage of the off-duty officer is to be commended as, in putting himself in harm’s way, he undoubtedly helped to prevent any further harm to the public.
“Violence of this level is utterly appalling and has no place on the streets of our county.
“Thankfully, the officer is expected to make a full recovery, though this story could have been very different.
This brazen attack took place in the middle of a busy area and must have been extremely frightening for all those who witnessed it
Detective Inspector Jon Stow
“I speak on behalf of the force and wider public in thanking him for his bravery and selflessness in the line of duty. His actions were nothing short of heroic.”
Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire John Tizard added: “This is one of many examples of police officers putting themselves at risk in the public interest and to protect members of the public.
“Selfless interventions like this and effective policing are critical to making Bedfordshire’s streets safer.
“Even when off duty, this Met officer was ready to step into danger to protect others. On behalf of the people of Bedfordshire I thank him for his courageous action, and wish him all the best for a speedy recovery.”
Detective Inspector Jon Stow from Luton CID said: “This brazen attack took place in the middle of a busy area and must have been extremely frightening for all those who witnessed it.
“We believe that the victim of the original robbery of the bike left the scene, and so we are particularly keen to identify him.
“We would also like to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time or knows anything about this offence.
“We are dedicating resources to this investigation to locate the individuals responsible.
“We will also maintain a high visibility presence in Luton town centre after this distressing incident and would welcome any residents to come and speak to us if they have concerns or information to share.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101 or via their website, quoting Operation Schubert.
