The police officer, who was attacked and chopped in his face by an alleged mentally-ill man in Manchester this morning (Apl 17) is said to be in critical condition at hospital.

His attacker and a male bystander who was shot and wounded during the incident are also being treated at hospital.

Area 3 Commander ACP Clifford Chambers says the Corporal was driving his motorcycle along the roadway in Christiana, when he was approached and chopped.

The officer who is assigned to the traffic department was on duty at the time of the incident.

ACP Chambers says a licensed firearm holder in the vicinity came to the aid of the cop.

He says the wounded cop lost a lot of blood, and a blood drive is now on for persons wishing to donate blood.

ACP Chambers says the attack was unprovoked.

He says a probe is being carried out as to how the teenage bystander was shot and wounded.

The police Chaplaincy Unit has begun counselling and support services for the wounded persons.