'This was an unprovoked attack on a young woman' - PSNI treating assault of woman in 20s on Botanic Avenue as a hate crime

Around 9.30pm, the woman, who is aged in her 20s, sustained injury during the assault.

She attended hospital for treatment and has since been discharged.

However, a racial remark was also made during this assault which is being treated as a hate crime.

Inspector Walker said: “This was an unprovoked attack on a young woman which has resulted in injury.

“We condemn this behaviour strongly and understand the concern this will have in the community.

“The area was fairly busy at the time and we'd ask anyone who witnessed this assault or who observed a man, matching the description of her alleged attacker, to get in touch.

"He is described as being aged between 30 and 40, of slim build and wearing a grey tracksuit.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and at an early stage. We’d ask that anyone with information call us on 101 quoting the reference number 1746 15/10/25 – or ring 999 in an emergency.”

Information can also be provided using the online non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Reacting to the attack, SDLP Botanic councillor Gary McKeown has condemned the incidient as ‘a disgusting attack that left a young woman requiring hospital treatment after what must have been a harrowing ordeal’.

‘Many people across our city will be thinking of her today and hoping she receives the support she needs.

‘It is deeply disturbing that police have confirmed a racial element to this incident.

‘South Belfast is home to a diverse community of people who live, work, and study here and contribute to our society. They have the right to be safe and feel safe.

‘I know this incident will cause serious concern in an area where many young people, and people from a range of backgrounds, live.

‘It is crucial that the perpetrator is apprehended quickly, and I would urge anyone who saw anything or has information to contact police immediately.’

And Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey also condemned the attack on a young woman in the Botanic area of south Belfast on Wednesday night as ‘abhorrent’ and appealed for information.

‘This was a disgusting and abhorrent racist attack and my thoughts are with the young woman involved,’ said the South Belfast MLA.

‘Thankfully, the woman has since been discharged from hospital, but she will no doubt be extremely shaken and fearful.

‘There can be no tolerance for this vile behaviour in our society.

‘Anyone who witnessed the assault should contact police.’