A MAN who attempted to knock down a policeman by driving his car at him on Paradise Island around Tuesday lunchtime is being detained in hospital after he was shot by the officer.

Shortly before 1pm, police report that an officer on duty on Paradise Island became suspicious of a man driving a vehicle. The officer signalled to the man to stop his vehicle to conduct a search for dangerous drugs and firearms.

When the officer asked the man to get out of the vehicle, he refused. According to police the man then reversed his vehicle a few feet and then drove at the officer at high speed. The officer, in fear for his life, discharged his police service handgun and shot the driver.

The man received a minor gunshot wound and was rushed to hospital where he is detained in stable condition. Investigations are ongoing.