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25th Aug 2021

Breeze block thrown from high-rise flat onto police vehicle in Belfast

Stephen Porzio

The PSNI called the incident a “deliberate and reckless attack on police.”

Police in north Belfast are appealing for witnesses and information after a breeze block was thrown from a high-rise flat onto a police vehicle.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening at around 8.50pm and has been described by the PSNI as a “deliberate and reckless attack on police.”

In a statement, the PSNI said that Neighbourhood Police Officers were on patrol when the breeze block was thrown from a high rise flat at Churchill House in the New Lodge area and landed on the roof of a police vehicle.

“It is extremely fortunate that none of the officers inside the vehicle were injured, however, this reprehensible attack caused substantial damage to the vehicle, ” Chief Inspector Fox said.

“If it wasn’t for the fact that this was an armoured vehicle, there is no doubt whatsoever that one of my officers could have been very seriously injured or worse.”

The PSNI said another police vehicle was also damaged on Saturday, 21 August at Victoria Parade in north Belfast after a missile was thrown from a block of flats at approximately 8.45pm.

“Attacks like these on officers, who are working diligently to protect and fight crime in the areas they serve, are attacks on the community as a whole, and are to be condemned,” Fox added.

“It is commendable that all of the officers involved, whilst shook up, continued to work their shifts, responding to calls, and protecting those most vulnerable who need our help and assistance.

“I am appealing to anyone has any information about any of these incidents which may assist us with our enquiries, to contact 101, quoting reference number 1774 of 24/08/21.”

A report can also be made online using the non-emergency reporting form here.

People can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at this link.

Main image via PSNI/Facebook

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