AN 18-year-old Holt man was arrested early on Sunday morning after allegedly punching a police officer in the face.

Police say the man approached officers “in an aggressive manner” outside the Shooters nightclub on East Row at about 3.15am as they dealt with reports of a fight inside the club.

According to police, the man ignored repeated demands to leave the area and continued to threaten the officers, violently resisting when they attempted to arrest him for breach of the peace and punching one in the face.

Three other men became involved and were also taken into custody after police used oleoresin capsicum spray to control the situation.

All four men were transported to the ACT Watch House. The Holt man has been charged with common assault, obstructing a territory official and breach of the peace. He was released on bail and will face court at a later date.

ACT Policing Superintendent Justine Gough said police would not tolerate being the victims of violent behaviour.

“Alcohol-fueled violence is a national issue, and we’re not immune to it here. However, our officers have every right to perform their duties without being the target of violence. It is completely unacceptable,” Superintendent Gough said.