Youths Attack Man In Racist Hate Crime

A man has been left injured after he was set upon by a group of youths in a "nasty" hate crime.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the serious assault in the Dunvale area of Ballymena on Saturday night, 15 February.

The victim, aged in his thirties, was leaving an address in the area with another male at around 11.30pm when a group of between six to eight youths shouted racist remarks at them.

When the victim challenged the youths, it was reported some of them hopped over a fence and punched and kicked him, after pushing him to the ground.

The other man with the victim attempted to intervene and was not injured in the attack.

The youths then made off from the scene.

PSNI Sergeant Hewat said: "Some of the youths are reported to be aged 16 to 17 years old, around 5' 8" tall. One of the youths wore a white-hooded top. Among the youths were two females.

"The victim is currently undergoing treatment at hospital for his injuries, including to his face.

"This was a nasty attack, which is being treated as a hate crime. As well as the physical injuries to the victim, both he and the other male have been left badly shaken.

"Hate crime has no place in society and should be rejected and reviled by everyone."

Alliance Cllr for the area Patricia O'Lynn condemned those behind the attack.

"Ballymena is a welcoming town and this attack is not a true image of life here," she commented.

"I hope the injured man makes a speedy and full recovery and I would urge anyone with information about this attack to report it to the police on the 101 number or anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111."

Detectives can be contacted quoting reference 01 of 16/02/20.



(JG/CM)