THE hunt continues for two suspects following a large scale police search yesterday.

Witnesses say armed police and a helicopter were deployed yesterday afternoon in the hunt for the two suspects, who ran from officers in the West End area.

The incident began in West End Road/Chalk Hill just after 3pm.

Police say an officer was assaulted while trying to arrest the pair, who were riding a motorbike – which had been reported as stolen.

The officer was taken to hospital for treatment, but he has since been discharged.

Police have denied the officer suffered any type of bullet injury – following speculation on social media.

However, Hampshire Constabulary have refused to disclose what the injury was.

Officers in Southampton and specialist units are actively searching for two suspects.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting incident 44180343957.

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.