Attack on houses by teenagers being treated as sectarian
A DUP MLA has condemned those behind a sectarian attack in which stones and bricks were thrown at houses in north Belfast.
Residents reported seeing a group of around 10 teenagers in the Crumlin Road area at around 10pm on Sunday.
The attackers threw around a dozen bits of rubble and halfbricks towards Bray Court, which landed in the back yards of houses and in the central courtyard.
As more residents appeared at their windows the attackers made their way up the Crumlin Road and turned into Ardoyne.
Police say they are treating the incident as sectarian.
North Belfast MLA William Humphrey said: “By sheer good fortune this attack did not result in any injuries or damage to cars or property, but clearly the consequences could have been very serious.
“The attackers cared nothing for whatever injuries or damage resulted from their reckless attack. This was a disgraceful crime. Those responsible should be condemned by all right-thinking people.
“Residents say there has not been an attack like this on their area for over five years, though they used to be commonplace.
“We can speculate on the motive for why this premeditated attack took place when it did.
“I am in no doubt that it was designed to raise inter-community tensions.”
PSNI Inspector Paul Noble said: “We have increased patrols in the area as our enquiries into the incident continue.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Tennent Street on 101 quoting reference number 423 July 9 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.