03/01/2019

Police Investigate Three Violent Incidents In Same Part Of West Belfast

Police are currently investigating three violent incidents which occurred in the same area of west Belfast in recent days.

Two homes were targeted over New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in Dermot Hill Parade and the Springfield Road area.

The family who live at Dermot Hill Parade have spoken out to say they are now leaving the area, after being subjected to violent attacks which they believe dissident republicans are behind.

George Richmond's home was "destroyed" after men with sledgehammers reportedly smashed the windows and door frames, while the house lay empty due to a previous gun attack.

The flat attacked at Springfield Road belongs to Mr Richmond's daughter. Shots were fired at the door of the property on New Year's Day.

No-one was inside the property at the time.

It has also emerged that three people were assaulted on Saturday 29 December in the Dermot Hill Road area.

A police spokesman said: "One male aged in his 40's, one woman aged in her 40's and a woman in her 50's were assaulted in the area by a number of people. All three were taken to hospital with injuries not believed to be serious.

"Enquiries are continuing and police would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 890 29/12/18.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”

The police have also appealed for information in relation to the attacks on the Richmond family's homes, and ask any potential witnesses to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 231 1/1/19.



(JG/MH)

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