RESIDENTS have revealed their shock after a police officer was stabbed multiple times in Southampton.

The 43-year-old male officer was called to check on the welfare of a man living at a home in Portswood Road just before midday today.

He was then stabbed several times and suffered serious, but non life-threatening injuries.

A police car remained on the scene last night outside a block of flats near the junction of Portswood Road.

One resident who wished to remain unnamed told the Daily Echo he heard loud banging in a flat opposite to his at around lunch time.

Police vehicles and officers are said to have been in the area since then.

The resident added: “It’s shocking. You don’t expect these things to happen in these [coronavirus] times.”

Police say that officers have been searching the area, speaking to residents, and looking for CCTV footage which might be useful to the investigation.

The victim’s family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

A 51-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Brown said: “Our thoughts are very much with the officer and his family at this time.

“We have a man in custody arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

“We are progressing the investigation, carrying out enquiries, conducting house to house visits and scoping CCTV opportunities.

“At the same time, we are providing support to the officer’s family and his colleagues following this incident.

“I would like to reassure you that there we do not believe there is any wider risk to the public.”

Anyone with information can call police on 101, quoting 44200400513.