Teens hospitalised after being ‘seriously assaulted’ during criminal and anti-social behaviour incident - parents ‘need to be aware of their children’s movements’

Police are appealing for information after two 15-year-olds and one 16-year-old were seriously assaulted during an incident of criminal and anti-social behaviour in the Upper Springfield Road Area yesterday evening (1 June 2020).
By Gemma Murray
Published 2nd Jun 2020, 17:52 BST
Updated 2nd Jun 2020, 18:03 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Inspector Graham said, “Just after 9.15pm, we received a report that a group of young people had congregated at the Invest NI site off the Springfield Road in Belfast, and that some had become involved in fighting and throwing bottles and other items at each other.

“Police attended and found a 15-year-old female had received a cut to her chest which required hospital treatment, and a 15 year old male had been subjected to a vicious assault by a number of young males.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“He is currently being treated in hospital for a suspected fractured skull.

Almost half of NI's acute hospital beds are currently empty - 1900 beds in total.Almost half of NI's acute hospital beds are currently empty - 1900 beds in total.
Almost half of NI's acute hospital beds are currently empty - 1900 beds in total.

“Another 16-year-old male had been knocked to the ground and had several cuts and bruises.

“We are investigating these assaults and I would appeal to anyone with information, or who may be able to help with our investigation, is asked to call us on the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference number 2351 of 1 June 2020, or submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

“You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/”.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Inspector Graham added: “The community really needs parents and guardians to speak to their young people about where they are and who they are with and also warn them of the dangers of getting involved in behaviour which could result in seriously injuring themselves, others, or ultimately, a criminal record.

AmbulanceAmbulance
Ambulance

“Young people who choose to engage in criminal and anti-social behaviour must understand it is unacceptable and must stop. People have a right to live in peace and to feel safe in their communities.

“It is also critically important that young people understand the importance of the advice from our public health partners and the Government about social distancing, follow the NI Executive regulations and do everything we can to stop the spread of Covid-19.

“Police are continuing to work alongside our partner agencies, local representatives and the community to address the issue.

“I would encourage anyone affected by criminal and anti-social behaviour to report the matter to police immediately on 101.”