Police arrested the 31-year-old male illegal immigrant from the mainland in the early hours of Monday during an anti-burglary operation near Nam Wa Po on Tai Wo Service Road West.

A police spokesman said officers tried to apprehend the suspect when they saw him breaking into a village house using a screwdriver, but were met with strong resistance.

During the pursuit, the suspect left behind his screwdriver, flashlight and gloves. He also pepper-sprayed the officers during the chase.

The suspect was eventually subdued and was currently detained for assaulting police officers, attempted burglary, possession of arms without a license, and illegal entry into Hong Kong.

Two officers who were pepper-sprayed were sent to hospital for treatment.

The spokesman also said police believe the man was responsible for multiple burglaries in the area, which the force will further investigate.