Share
6th May 2024
12:33pm BST
A man has been nailed to a fence in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) were called to the area of Bushmills in the early hours of Sunday (May 5) following reports of a serious assault.
Shortly after midnight the PSNI discovered a man in his 20s with nails through both of his hands attached to a fence, reports Sky News.
The PSNI have described the attack as both "sinister" and "brutal".
On the wall of a public toilet nearby there was graffiti found which officers believe is linked to the attack.
Two vans were also found on fire in a nearby car park, one of the vans belonged to the injured man.
The victim was also left with injuries to his nose.
He was rushed to hospital where his condition was described as not life-threatening although his injuries could be life-changing.
Detective Inspector Lyttle said: "This was a sinister attack which has left this man with potentially life-changing injuries.
"Everyone has the right to live their life free from the threat of violence and this brutal attack by people who violate the human rights of others must be universally condemned.
"We live in a democratic society where there is no justification for this.
"Those responsible brutalise their own communities and control others through intimidation and violence."
Detective Inspector Lyttle added that the attack took place in a residential area where a number of holiday homes are located.
Alliance MLA for North Antrim Sian Mulholland described the attack as "especially appalling".
She said: "My first thoughts are with the victim of this serious assault. The nature of this attack was especially appalling and has left the victim with potentially life-altering injuries.
"It is not acceptable under any circumstances to brutally assault someone in this manner and I hope the man makes a full recovery.
"There is no place for this violence in Bushmills, North Antrim or anywhere else in Northern Ireland."
TUV leader and North Antrim MLA Jim Allister condemned the incident, saying: "I express my dismay at the gruesome and cruel attack carried out in the village."
The PSNI have urged anyone with any information to come forward.
Read next:
Explore more on these topics:
