Stabbed policeman opens his eyes in hospital

The police officer stabbed as he attempted to arrest a man at a Maroubra pub on Australia Day has opened his eyes in hospital.

Detective Sergeant John Breda remains in a serious but stable condition in the Intensive Care Unit at St Vincent’s Hospital, but has been able to recognise family members and communicate using hand signals.

The detective was stabbed twice by suspected paedophile Nick Newman on January 26 at the Maroubra Junction Hotel during what was meant to be a routine arrest.

Newman was subsequently shot dead by officers.

A warrant for the 33-year-old's arrest was issued last week after he failed to appear at Penrith Local Court. He was wanted over six counts of raping a teenage girl, who he reportedly impregnated.

9NEWS has been told Det. Sgt Breda is a very fit man, which has assisted with his recovery and he is improving day by day. He is currently still intubated.

He has served as a police officer for 21 years, a detective for 13 years and has been part of the Child Abuse Squad for four years.

Det. Sgt Breda is a highly regarded detective and was awarded with a National Medal in 2015.

A critical incident team from the Homicide Squad is investigating all the circumstances surrounding the incident.