16/01/2024

Other News In Brief

Appeal For Witnesses To Assault In L'Derry Bar

Detectives in L'Derry have issued an appeal for information after a man was reportedly headbutted during an assault in a licensed premises over the weekend.

The man is reported to have been assaulted in premises on Racecourse Road by another man at around 8.30pm on Saturday evening, 13th January. The victim, aged in his fifties, sustained a broken jaw after it's reported he was head-butted.

Detective Sergeant Chambers, from the Criminal Investigation Branch at Strand Road, said: "We know there were people in the premises socialising at around this time. Our appeal is to anyone who saw what happened, and who hasn't spoken with us yet, is to get in touch. Not only has the victim sustained a serious injury requiring surgery, but he has also been left extremely distressed by what happened."

The number to call with information is 101, quote reference number 830 of 14/01/24. A report can also be made online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/report or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Scrambler Seized By PSNI In Shankill Area

PSNI officers from Tennent Street have seized a scrambler after it was seen being ridden recklessly around the Shankill area.

Police observed the bike driving on the Shankill Road at around 11.40 pm, by a man not wearing a helmet, the bike made off from the scene.

A short time later officers observed the same scrambler driving with two males on board around the Shankill Road area at speed, beeping its horn.

The bike drove onto Hopewell Crescent before hitting a curb and both men falling off, one made off from the scene on foot and another attempted re-start the bike but was then prevented to leave by police.

Follow up enquiries by police resulted in locating the other male, both will now be reported to the PPS.

Chief Inspector Alan Lowry said: "We know this is an issue of concern in the community, and we want to reassure you it's one we take seriously.

"The road conditions were icy on Monday night and when these machines are being driven at speed, creating a nuisance in built-up areas, close to people and homes, this is dangerous and reckless. 

"This was good work by officers who apprehended one of the men on foot and then were able to track down the other man without a pursuit.

"Not only is there the impact on people's lives in the community, but there are also serious safety concerns.

"We will continue to work proactively to apprehend those involved in this anti-social and criminal behaviour. Our appeal is to anyone who witnesses this activity to report it to us immediately. That way we can respond faster. You can also make a report to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

"Some scramblers do not comply with Construction and Use Regulations and Vehicle Safety Standards and therefore are restricted to "off-road” use only. This does not mean that they can be driven anywhere off-road. These vehicles should only be driven on private land where the landowner has given permission and should not be driven on pavements, roads, public property or parks. Insurance and safety equipment must be complied with as well in order to drive these vehicles legally.

"To anyone thinking about buying these vehicles, we urge them to first think about where it is going to be used and the legalities surrounding its' use."

Sammy Douglas Named New High Sheriff Of Belfast

DUP councillor Sammy Douglas has been named the new High Sheriff of Belfast.

Douglas, who represents the Titanic area of east Belfast, becomes the 124th High Sheriff of Belfast and replaces former councillor John Kyle in the role.

Looking ahead to his new responsibility, Councillor Douglas said: "I am honoured to take up the role of High Sheriff in what promises to be a really exciting year for Belfast.

"I look forward to working with the Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor throughout the year ahead and seeing more of our fantastic city and its citizens."

Councillor Douglas has been involved in social, economic and physical regeneration and development in the east of the city since the 1980s and has also worked in a range of mediation and reconciliation roles.

He served in the Northern Ireland Assembly from 2011 to 2017 and was co-opted onto Belfast City Council as a representative for the Lisnasharragh DEA in June 2022.

He was returned to council, this time as a representative for Titanic DEA, at the most recent council elections in May 2023.

Councillor Douglas was awarded an MBE by Her Majesty the Queen in 2002 for Services to the Community and has also been honoured with a Commendation for Outstanding Leadership by the US Department of Commerce.

The new High Sherriff will take up office for a full calendar year and join a team of civic dignitaries that includes Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, and Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Áine Groogan.




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