He had tried to rob a woman at a panel beater in the CBD.

The suspect broke free after stabbing a police officer, who was arresting him, in the arm. He was chased by passers-by and then re-arrested at the intersection of Victoria Road and Chief Albert Luthuli Street.

Numerous police and Combined Action Team (CAT) members arrived, blue lights flashing.

The wounded police officer was treated for a minor cut on his wrist by medics.

uMgungundlovu South police spokesperson Mthokozisi Ngobeni confirmed the man was arrested and cases of attempted murder, robbery and assault were opened.

He said members of the public played a central part in arresting the suspect.

“We appreciate the role the community is taking in reducing crime and helping police arrest those who break the law,” said Ngobeni.

Ngobeni said the woman was not harmed during the attempted robbery.

The police spokesperson warned against attempting to attack police officers under any circumstances.

With a number of police killed recently by criminals, Ngobeni said, “We are dealing with police killings — anyone who attempts to fight the police will be dealt with,” he said.