Acting Chief Inspector Calvin Smith - Around 12.30pm today, Friday May 27, 2011 police officers and Government Animal Wardens attended a report of dog cruelty in the area of Court and Elliot Streets, Pembroke.

The owner of the dog was located but a confrontation and a foot chase quickly ensued.

The dog was set upon the warden who was attacked violently and a passerby was also attacked in the process.

The police officer in attendance was carrying a firearm. He determined that the nature of the attack required the use of lethal force and he discharged his firearm. Two shots were fired at the dog and the dog died from its injuries.

Both the warden and the other person received bite wounds that required hospital treatment.

A 19 year old man has been arrested in connection with this incident and is currently in police custody.

In keeping with our policy on the use of police firearms an enquiry has commenced immediately to ensure that all protocols were followed, but at this early stage it appears that the firearm was discharged in accordance with and under the authority of our policies.