A Translink ticket inspector has suffered a suspected broken nose after being assaulted on a Glider bus in west Belfast.
The PSNI are investigating the incident, which took place around 5.30pm on Thursday in the Lenadoon area.
A PSNI spokesperson said: “The member of staff suffered facial injuries including a suspected broken nose.
“The suspect is described as aged in his late 20s to early 30s, with short blonde hair and wearing a grey tracksuit with the hood up.
“Enquiries are continuing and anyone with any information or footage that could assist with the investigation is urged to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1611 of August 10.”
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Commenting on the attack, a Translink spokesperson confirmed a Glider Inspector was injured in the attack.
“The safety of our staff and passengers is our top priority and we strongly condemn this attack on our colleague, who was taken to hospital,” they said.
“Our staff member is being offered all available supports.
“We are assisting the PSNI investigation, including provision of CCTV from the Glider vehicle, the halt and body cam footage.
“We also offer a reward of up to £1,000 for anyone prepared to give evidence which leads to a conviction.”
The SDLP’s West Belfast councillor Paul Doherty called it “an abhorrent attack” on a Translink worker carrying out their duties.
“Nobody should be subjected to something like this while working and I’m sure it was a very upsetting experience that will stay with the staff member for some time,” he said.
“Many people in West Belfast rely on the Glider and other public transport to get them where they need to be, to work, school, to socialise or for appointments.
“Given the importance of these services for people in this community it’s deeply disappointing that we continue to see anti-social behaviour taking place and this latest attack on staff.”
Mr Doherty urged everyone using public transport to treat staff with respect.
“Continued incidents like this risk vital services being withdrawn from this area and that’s the last thing the local community wants to see.
“Anyone who witnessed this attack should come forward to police, we need to see a zero-tolerance approach for attacks of this nature.”
