Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
BLOODY SHOE CLUE TO ‘VICIOUS ATTACK’
PSNI make graphic photo appeal after paramilitary thugs shoot man in ankle
YESTERDAY DERRY
POLICE have released an image of a gun attack victim’s blood-stained shoe to “highlight the vicious nature of the attack”.
In an unusual move, a senior PSNI officer issued the picture of the trainer which was worn by a man when he was shot in the ankle on Thursday night.
Detectives are continuing to appeal for witnesses following the paramilitarystyle attack in Derry.
Chief Inspector Ivor Morton said: “This was a particularly horrific attack in our city and yet another example of how these criminal groups seek to control communities through fear and violence. The 41-year-old victim sustained a serious gunshot wound to his right ankle after he was shot, we believe, in the vicinity of Creggan shops.
“We are keen to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything in the area around 7.45pm last night.
“We have taken the decision to release a photograph of the victim’s trainer to highlight the vicious nature of the attack. I am appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity of Creggan Shops yesterday evening and who saw any suspicious persons or activity to contact Detectives at Strand Road on 101.”
He added potential witnesses can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, saying it is “100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime”. The shooting was condemned by the chairman of the Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Alderman Drew Thompson.
He said: “These assaults must be condemned by all members of our community.
“The shooting cannot and should not be justified. The criminal gang that carried out the horrific attack have no concern for people living in the area and no matter what rationale is put forward this vicious assault has no place in our society.
“I would appeal to anyone with information on the shooting to contact the police or Crimestoppers immediately.”