Police officers in Western Australia want greater freedom to use American-style containment techniques during vehicle pursuits.
The WA Police Union says the use of a "boxing-in" technique was authorised to apprehend a man who allegedly went on an overnight crime spree last weekend.
The 28-year-old man, who is accused of stealing several cars and using a tomahawk to threaten victims, was arrested on the Kwinana Freeway after his vehicle was surrounded by four police cars which slowed to a halt.
Acting union president Paul Gale said one police car crashed into a light pole which fell onto the suspect's vehicle but no one was hurt.
Mr Gale said he believed it was the first time the technique had been authorised in WA in decades.
The union is lobbying for greater use of boxing-in to end high-speed pursuits but claims officers are being given insufficient training and protections.
"Police officers have the skill and courage to carry out this tactic," Mr Gale said on Thursday.
"But the government must provide them with requisite training, suitable vehicles, and legal protection in the form of vicarious liability should someone be injured, or property be damaged."
A WA Police spokeswoman did not directly address the union's claims but said the force was always considering the best ways to handle incidents.
"Our current urgent duty driving policies and practices are premised on officer and public safety at all times, with tactical decisions based on constant risk assessments, an officer's situational awareness and legislative authority," she said.
The police union is continuing to push for an improved pay deal from the state government, which is offering a three per cent annual pay rise and a one-off $3000 bonus.
A ballot of members on the most recent offer is due to close next Tuesday.
