An Athlone man has been arrested after allegedly threatening Gardaí with two knives and assaulting a woman last night.
At about 1.20am, officers were attending a call in the Willow Park when the 21-year-old allegedly threatened the officers with a knife before they withdrew for their own safety.
A short time later, it is claimed he assaulted a woman in the estate and escaped in a car at speed.
Gardaí pursued him and the assailant's vehicle eventually broke down on the M6, going eastbound.
He again allegedly threatened officers with a knife, but was later subdued after more Gardaí were called to the scene.
He is currently being detained in Athlone Garda Station.