A man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a police woman was almost shoved off a third floor balcony.
The 22-year-old was reportedly attacking family members when two policewomen arrived at his home.
The pair witnessed him punch a window and discovered him on the stairwell with hand injuries.
But, when they tried to detain the man, they were viciously attacked at the property in Carshalton, South London.
According to police, he held one of the officers in a headlock and attempted to push her off the third-floor balcony.
During the struggle, the other policewoman was also kicked repeatedly, Met Police say.
However, back up arrived after the officers managed to activate their emergency radio alarm.
Superintendent Steven Wright of the South Area Command Unit said: “Both officers were responding to a call for help and were then assaulted, with one officer put in immediate risk of being critically injured.
“I am thankful that the two officers have not been seriously hurt, but this incident shows the courage of my officers and the dangers they can face.”
The policewomen were taken to hospital, where they are still recovering from their injuries.
The arrested man briefly stayed in hospital but is now in custody at a South London police station.
A 52-year-old man was also arrested for obstructing police and is in custody.
Enquiries continue.
By Ben Gelblum and Isabel Dobinson