Five officers were punched and bitten while arresting a drink-drive suspect fleeing a crash scene, police have said.
The silver Vauxhall Corsa smashed into a lamppost and a green Fiat Punto in Bromley Road, Catford.
The motorist tried to flee on foot but was restrained by officers from the Met’s Territorial Support Group.
He lashed out and had to be put in leg restraints and a spit guard, Met Police said.
On the way to the hospital for treatment to injuries sustained in the collision, police said the man continued to be aggressive and racially abusive.
He has been charged with aggravated taking and driving away, assault on police, drink-driving, and a racially aggravated offence under the Public Order Act.
Officers sustained large cuts, bruising and scratches.
Police investigating the incident are appealing for dashcam or mobile phone footage.
Detective Constable Alan Jones, from the Met’s South East Command Unit, who is leading the investigation, said: “I know members of the public were in the vicinity and will have seen this incident.
“Officers were attacked by someone who was trying to flee the scene of a serious collision and I am asking those who were present to send us in any footage they have. It will help our investigation and ensure that the person responsible for this faces justice.”
A man has been charged in connection with the incident, which saw a silver Vauxhall Corsa collide with a lamppost and a green Fiat Punto.
Anyone with information is asked to call police via 101 or Tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 6029/12Jul. To remain 100 per cent anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
