Man suffers life-changing injuries in gun attack

A 29-YEAR-old man has been left with life-changing injuries after being subjected to a so-called punishment shooting.

The victim was discovered lying in an alleyway in the Iris Court area of west Belfast around 8.40pm on Wednesday. He had been shot in both legs.

Chief Inspector Kellie McMillan said police understand the victim’s injuries are potentially life-changing.

“This could have a significant impact on the rest of his life,” she said. “Violent crime such as this must stop. Not only is there an impact on the victim and their family, but also on the community who are left in fear of such violence taking place on their doorstep.

“I am appealing for the community to work with us and give us the information we need to put those criminals responsible before the courts to face justice and make west Belfast a safer place. Anyone with any information that could assist with the investigation, please contact the non-emergency number 101.”

SDLP vice chair Gerard McDonald slammed the gunmen who “violated” the peacefulness of the area.

“This is a quiet neighbourhood and those who violated that peace by viciously shooting a man in the legs are thugs who must face justice,” he said. “The only way we can stop these people is if people bring information forward to the police.”