The 34 year old police officer stabbed several times in Bute Road Waddon, Thursday night has been named as Constable Nigel Albuery. He is currently in a serious condition in a South London hospital, but his wounds are not thought to be life threatening.
Croydon Borough commander Adrian Roberts, said:
Last night a working police officer was stabbed several times whilst in the line of duty. I and my officers are shocked and concerned that this has happened but are determined to continue to deliver a professional service to the community of Croydon borough. Our thoughts are with the officer and his family at this time, and we wish him a speedy recovery.
The Metropolitan police say he and a colleague were on a routine plain clothes patrol, in an unmarked vehicle when they stopped a group of male teenagers in Bute Road.
During this stop and search, one of the teenagers stabbed the officer several times.
London Ambulance Service attended and the officer was treated for stab wounds before being taken to hospital.
The other officer was not injured.
PC Albuery is part of the Safer Neighbourhoods Team in West Thornton. He has been a member of the Metropolitan Police Service since 2002.
Three men, all aged 18, were arrested last night and are being kept in custody at separate police stations in south London.
Commander Roberts added:
It is important to remember that this is an isolated incident. Local officers have been tasked with increased patrols in the area to reassure the public, and we have spoken with our partners so that the community can share their concerns. We are still trying to establish the full circumstances in this case but this attack is a stark reminder that police officers have a challenging job but remain committed to making London safer.