Boy Critical After Coming Into Contact With Unknown Substance

A young boy is in a critical condition in hospital after he came in contact with an unknown substance at a site in west Belfast.

The incident happened at a bonfire site in Glenwood Street, just off the Shankill Road, over the weekend.

Police have issued a warning to parents and guardians who may have visited the site to monitor them closely.

PSN Superintendent Andrea McMullan said: "We are concerned that a number of other young people in the area could have potentially come into contact with this substance and are asking parents and guardians whose children may have visited this bonfire site to closely monitor them.

"The symptoms, which may include redness of the eyes and sore throats, coughing and breathing difficulties, can take up to 36 hours to become visible and I would encourage anyone who has concerns about their children to seek medical advice immediately.

"Any clothing or skin that may have been exposed should be washed to remove residual chemicals that may be left on them."

Alliance Westminster west Belfast candidate Sorcha Eastwood said: "It is extremely worrying to hear a young boy has been left seriously ill due to the thoughtlessness of fly-tippers in the area. My thoughts are with the young boy and his family, and I would urge parents to keep an eye on others who could have come into contact with this substance.

"I also encourage all bonfire organisers to fully engage with the Council's Bonfire Scheme, designed to keep local communities safe. It is for this reason tyres and other items are often removed, ensuring the safety of local people is upheld at all times.

"If anyone has any information of those behind this illegal dump I would ask them to contact the PSNI as soon as possible."

(CD/LM)