Northern Ireland

Appeal for calm after further violence in lower Shankill

Windows were boarded up at a home in the Shankill area of Belfast after an attack on Monday evening
Windows were boarded up at a home in the Shankill area of Belfast after an attack on Monday evening Windows were boarded up at a home in the Shankill area of Belfast after an attack on Monday evening

THERE have been appeals for calm after homes were attacked in the lower Shankill area of Belfast.

The attacks follow a shooting in the area last month that left a 29-year-old man in a critical condition.

Police were called on Monday evening after houses in the Hopewell Crescent area were targeted.

Windows were smashed and threats were made, forcing a number of members of the same family to flee the area.

Tensions have been high in the area since a man was shot while standing at the rear of a house on February 21.

The injured man, who was a victim of mistaken identity, remains in hospital after being struck multiple times in the upper body.

The Irish News understands that the intended target has yet to make an official police statement.

Detectives last week appealed for information about the movements of a 2004 VW Passat, registration FHZ 3287.

The vehicle, believed to have been used by the gunman, was found burnt out at Fortwilliam Golf Club.

DUP councillor Brian Kingston last night appealed for calm, saying that it was "concerning that there is a further incident and that houses have been attacked".

"I would appeal for no further escalation, this is clearly very upsetting and unsettling for the local community", he added.

Police have appealed for witnesses to the most recent attack.

Inspector Paul Noble said: “We received a report at 7.45pm (Monday) that a number of windows had been smashed at a property in the area.

"We are appealing for anyone who might have information which may assist the investigation to contact detectives at Tennent Street station on 101 quoting reference number 1810 of 01/03/2021.

"You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/."