AN investigation to trace a man last seen in the Synod Inn area on Saturday afternoon is continuing today and police are urging members of the public to remain vigilant while not alarmed.

A search for a man who assaulted a police officer before fleeing has been underway for two days, with officers targeting specific locations in Ceredigion where intelligence suggests he might be.

There was a heavy police presence in Cardigan on Sunday afternoon as officers continued their search.

The operation began when a police officer stopped a car containing two men at around 1.15pm on the A487 at Synod Inn. This was based on information which suggested the outstanding man was connected with criminal activity in other force areas.

The officer was attacked and required hospital treatment for cuts, bruising and an injured knee, and will be unable to return to work for a significant amount of time.

The two men made off from the scene on foot.

A 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer and three counts of taking vehicles on Saturday night. Police have been granted a 36-hour extension by magistrates to further question him.

The second man remains outstanding.

Chief Superintendent Peter Roderick said: “We are aware that there is currently a higher than usual police activity in certain areas, and we can understand the concerns of people living in these communities.

“We would like to reassure the community that there is likely to be more risk of harm to our officers than members of the public at this time.

“An investigation to find the outstanding man is ongoing and a dedicated team of officers is acting on all possible leads to trace him.

“We would urge people to remain vigilant, yet not alarmed and to report any suspicious information to Dyfed-Powys Police on 999.”