21/03/2006

Police believe south Belfast attacks had racial motive

Police in south Belfast are investigating a number of attacks on homes in the Donegal Road, Fortuna Street and Coolfin Street last night.

A gang of up to seven men armed with baseball bats are understood to have smashed through the door and the windows of a house in the Donegal Road area of the city just after 10pm.

A 51-year-old man, who was in the house at the time, suffered an injury to his arm after being attacked by a hammer.

He was treated in hospital for his injuries, but was later released.

Police believe that the gang, who were all wearing scarves to hide their faces, may also be responsible for attacks on two other houses in the nearby Fortuna Street and Coolfin Street, in which a number of windows were smashed.

A police spokeswoman today confirmed that the attacks are believed to have been racially motivated and added that officers are fully committed to bringing those responsible before the courts and have urged the public for their assistance

Detective Ken Eckles, Operations Manager for south Belfast District Command Unit today said: "Yesterday we announced our new policy to tackle hate incidents and we are very clear about our role and commitment.

"We will not tolerate crimes of this nature but we need the help and support of the local community.

"They must also come forward and demonstrate that they will not allow this to happen. We must work together to make south Belfast a multi-cultural society and a safer place in which to live."

Police have appealed for anyone with any information on the incidents to contact them on 0845 600 8000, or on the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.

(EF/SP)

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