An extensive air and land search is currently underway for offenders who fired upon a police vehicle this morning on Poatina Road.

Tasmania Police had cause to road spike a stolen black Ford Falcon travelling along Arthurs Lake Road.  At the time there was a man and woman in the vehicle.  The vehicle was followed into Poatina Road heading towards Launceston.  Around 6.45am occupants of that vehicle fired upon police hitting the side of the following police vehicle.  Two further shots were fired but no police officer was injured.

Shortly afterwards the stolen vehicle crashed on Poatina Road near Poatina Village and the alleged offenders ran off into bushland.

At present Poatina Road is closed and police have cordoned off the area.

Police would like anyone who lives in the area of Poatina specifically around Saundridge Road, Blackwood Creek Road and Poatina Road to report any suspicious behaviour and to ensure that their vehicles are locked and secured along with their homes.

Any suspicious behaviour can be reported immediately to 131 444.

Police are interested in speaking to the two people pictured below.  Members of the public are advised not to approach them but to report any sightings immediately to police.

Media can assemble the southern end of Poatina Road at the cordon to get vision however will not be permitted into the area at this time.  Updates will be provided and a press conference arranged for later in the day at Launceston Headquarters.