Magennis Criticises 'Reckless' Attack On Police

A 26-year-old man is being questioned in relation to a gun attack on police officers in West Belfast.

Three officers were responding to a report of a burglary in the Foxes Glen area of Dunmurry on Thursday when the attack happened.

Up to six shots were fired as the officers got out of their vehicle and witnesses said the officers had to dive for cover and crawl on the ground until they reached the safety of their own vehicle.

No one was injured, but the female officer and her two male colleagues are said to have been badly shaken by the incident.

Police now believe the original report of a burglary was false and could have been an attempt to lure officers into the area.

A man was arrested in Belfast on Thursday night and was brought to Antrim Serious Crime Suite.

Lisburn Sinn Féin councillor Stephen Magennis accused those responsible for the shooting of being involved in a "reckless and pointless attack, which not only jeopardised the lives of police officers but also local people, including children."

Mr Magennis added: "Due to the good weather people living in Foxes Glen were sitting outside their homes watching their children playing.

"We are very lucky no one was injured or killed in this reckless and pointless attack.

"The bogus reporting of a burglary by dissidents in order to serve their agenda only does a grave disservice to this community. Following a number of serious incidents in the local area over the past weeks this community is calling for an effective policing response

"Those behind the attack need to explain to this community the rationale behind this attack and what exactly it achieved except causing fear and upset for the local residents."

(JP/CD)