Minority ethnic community afraid following anti-social behaviour, police say

By Rebecca Black, PA

Minority ethnic communities have been left feeling afraid following anti-social behaviour in south Belfast, police have said.

Police said young people have been gathering on Donegall Pass throwing items at members of the public.

Neighbourhood Inspector Roisin Brown said a number of the minority ethnic community have been targeted.

“Over the last 48 hours police have received multiple reports of young people gathering on Donegall Pass and throwing items including bottles, cans and water balloons at members of the public,” she said.

“A number of our minority ethnic community have been targeted and have been left feeling afraid and unwelcome in the area.

“Among a number of reports, one man was knocked off his scooter, whilst a vulnerable young woman was targeted by anti-social behaviour causing her to extreme distress.

“Along with this we are also receiving reports of elderly people being in fear.”

Ms Brown urged parents and guardians to know where their children are.

“I am appealing directly to parents and guardians to know where your children are and what they are doing.

“This guidance could well be the thing that prevents them from ending up with a criminal record,” she said.

“I am also appealing to these young people themselves, this may seem like harmless fun, however we are actively investigating reports of assaults and public order offences.

“We do not wish to criminalise young people, but this must always be balanced against our duty to keep the public safe and to investigate offences reported to us.

“I would ask that you all support us to put an end this behaviour.”