THREE people have been arrested following a sectarian attack in east Belfast last week.
Last Wednesday, police said a man was kicked, punched and subjected to sectarian abuse on Mayflower Street.
A woman who tried to intervene also suffered an injury to her eye. The following day a gang of around five men caused damage to a house on the street.
Earlier this week, the doors and windows of the premises were boarded up and the residents told The Irish News they did not wish to speak.
Chief Inspector Rosie Thompson said she was aware of “ongoing issues” in the street and officers were continuing to provide a visible policing presence in the area.
Today, a woman (25) and a man (35) were arrested on suspicion of common assault, but have since been released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service. A man in his thirties was also arrested on September 15, on suspicion of common assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was later released on bail pending further enquiries.
DUP councillor Adam Newton condemned the attacks.
"It's obviously a very worrying situation and something that doesn't reflect the people who live in that area," he said.
"Mayflower Street and the surrounding area are generally quiet and settled. Any sectarian intimidation of this nature has to be condemned. Everyone should be welcome to live in east Belfast and shouldn't have to have this hanging over them, they should be able to live peacefully."
Police have said the investigation is continuing and have urged any witnesses or those with footage to contact 101, quoting reference RM22057079.
