The incident at a block of flats in Jalan Sungai Pinang last night involved policemen chasing a male suspect on a motorcycle, and several residents.

The chase entered the flats area when one of the policemen’s motorcycles skidded and rammed into a food stall, after which the fight ensued. The motorcycle was also allegedly damaged by members of the public during the brawl.

Penang police chief Azizee Ismail confirmed the incident and said the cops who were hurt received outpatient treatment, Harian Metro reported.

“We are also trying to identify several others to assist in investigations,” he was quoted as saying.

Separately, Timur Laut police chief Abdul Rozak Muhammad said the eight suspects detained were all men, aged 28 to 38. They have been remanded until Saturday.

In a statement, Rozak said the case is being investigated for rioting and the use of criminal force against a public servant.