Two police cars were smashed up while officers responded to an emergency call in Colchester.

Essex Police received reports around 11.30pm yesterday that a woman had been assaulted following an argument.

While assisting the victim, who suffered minor injuries, two police cars were badly damaged in Berechurch Hall Road around 12.50am this morning.

A witness reported that suspects got out of a silver Ford Fiesta, climbed onto the vehicles and then smashed the windows, front windscreens, lights and dented bonnets.

Attempts were made to stop the vehicle, but it drove off at speed and was not relocated.

Chief Inspector Shaun Kane, district commander for Colchester, said the “mindless and criminal behaviour” was unacceptable.

“We responded to a woman’s plea for help only to have two police cars damaged as we continued to offer her support,” he said.

“To have our emergency vehicles taken out of action following this mindless and criminal behaviour is unacceptable.

“We are continuing to investigate and would like to locate the people involved.

“We would urge anyone with information, dash cam footage or CCTV to contact Colchester police station on 101 quoting crime reference 42/64382/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”