A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of the attempted murder of two police officers. 

The officers and another man were struck by a vehicle in Littlehampton this morning.

The incident on the A259 is being investigated as a deliberate act.

Sussex Police officers were carrying out a routine drugs check at the side of the road when a Mercedes-Benz saloon approached at speed and collided with the officers and the man they were with.

All three were transported to hospital to be treated for serious injuries.

The driver of the Mercedes-Benz, aged 20, ran off but was stopped and arrested by officers on suspicion of attempted murder.

Assistant Chief Constable Julia Chapman said: “This is being investigated as a deliberate attack on two police officers in the course of carrying out their duties. 

"Their injuries, and that of the man they were with, whilst serious, are not believed to be life threatening.

“Two passengers in the car remain outstanding and we urge the public to help us trace and bring to justice all of those involved.”

The incident happened at the Bodyshop roundabout at approximately 1.05am.

The two officers, a man and woman, were carrying out a routine drugs check on a car and had detained one man on suspicion of drugs offences at the side of the road when the second car approached.

Two men, passengers in the Mercedez, ran off. 

The area was searched but they have not yet been found.

The road was closed for the scene to be secured and examined.

Anyone who saw what happened or who has any other information is asked to contact the police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Oxbridge.