The Bermuda Police Association has condemned the “cowardly” behaviour of a motorcycle passenger who shot at officers.

A spokesman insisted yesterday that the organisation would intensify its efforts to protect members of the public and safeguard the welfare of its members.

The comments came after police were called to an incident near Khyber Pass, in Warwick, shortly after midnight on Saturday.

Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons said that as officers approached the junction with Quarry Lane, they saw two men riding a motorcycle and that the passenger “discharged a firearm” at the police.

He added on Monday: “In response, the officers pursued the suspects in attempt to stop them.

“The rider lost control of their motorcycle, and in the course of this encounter, our officers discharged their weapons. The suspects managed to escape on foot.”

In a statement today, the BPA said: “The Bermuda Police Association notes with great concern the reckless and criminal actions of the two individuals who senselessly shot at our officers while they were responding to a call for service to protect members of the public.

“The association condemns this cowardly act and stands in full support of the officers and ranks on file.

“This unprovoked act of hostility serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that members of the BPA face while protecting the public.”

It added: “We commend the bravery of the officers who, despite being shot at, stood their ground and ensured the safety of the public.

“Their dedication to duty and professionalism is truly inspiring and deserves our utmost respect.

“The BPA fully supports these officers and any other officers who are attacked while carrying out their lawful duties.

“We are committed to ensuring that these officers' welfare is taken care of and will do everything in our power to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.”

The statement said: “The members of the BPA remain unwavering in their commitment to protect the public against such lawless individuals.

“We will not be deterred by these criminal-minded individuals; instead, we are redoubling our efforts to ensure the safety of the public while safeguarding the welfare of our valued officers.

“We join with the Bermuda Police Service in asking the public to report any information that could assist in this investigation.

“We are grateful for your support and co-operation.”

Mr Simons said this week that while the weekend’s incident was not the first time police were shot at, it was the first time that BPS officers discharged lethal weapons at another person.

He added on Monday: “I want to stress that, thankfully, there are no reports of injury resulting from this incident. I met with the officers involved on the evening in question, and I'm grateful to say they are doing well, considering the circumstances.”

Mr Simons was unable to say if the firearms suspects were involved in the initial incident that brought police to the scene.

He said then: “It’s way too early to establish that but, without a doubt, that’s a line of inquiry we’re examining.”

Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns added that the shooting was “a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day”.

She said: “As we actively continue the investigation, I want to remind everyone that the individuals who fired at police are at large.

“This was a dangerous and reckless act that placed the lives of our officers and nearby residents at significant risk.”

The BPA reminded residents that information about the incident can be provided to police by calling 211 or speaking to an officer they know.

Details can be provided confidentially through the Crime Stoppers hotline on 800-8477 and via the BPS online community reporting portal at portal.police.bm.