Two officers assaulted during response to alleged scrambler bike offences in Belfast

By David Young, PA

Two police officers have been assaulted and injured as they responded to reports of scrambler bikes being driven on roads in west Belfast.

A police car was also damaged in the incident in the Glasvey Drive area of Twinbrook on Christmas Day morning.

A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of motoring offences.

Police received several reports of scramblers being driven in the Bell Steele Road, Glenbawn and Stewartstown Road areas at around 11am on Wednesday.

A PSNI spokesman said: “Officers attended and were surrounded by a large group of people in the Glasvey Drive area, who assaulted two of our officers.

“One of the officers had a glass bottle thrown at him, cutting his hand. A second officer was kicked multiple times. A police car was also damaged during the incident.”

The 34-year-old was arrested on suspicion of several offences, including dangerous driving and use of a motorcycle while failing to wear protective headgear.

He was released on police bail to allow for further inquiries.

The PSNI spokesperson continued: “We are lucky we are not looking at a much more serious incident.

“Our officers work tirelessly to protect our communities and do not deserve to be assaulted for simply doing their job.

“We urge the public to think about their use of scramblers and to learn the legalities surrounding their use.

“Scramblers do not generally comply with construction and use legislation and vehicle standards so are therefore restricted to off-road use only.”

The PSNI said an investigation had been launched to identify the suspects.

Officers appealed to anyone who could help identify those in the area at the time, or with dashcam or doorbell footage of the events, to contact them.