POLICE IN BELFAST are appealing for information following a report of criminal damage and assault.
This happened in the Skegoniel area of north Belfast yesterday evening.
It is reported that at around 10pm a group of between 20 to 30 youths, some of whom were carrying knives and sticks, gathered in the area.
Fighting broke out between the group and a number of vehicles in the area were damaged.
It is thought that social media sites may have been used to arrange the fight.
A 17-year-old male received a head injury but was able to be treated at the scene. A police officer also received a minor injury.
Speaking about the incident, Chief Inspector Davy Moore of the PSNI, said, “Young people should be aware of the consequences of their behaviour not only in terms of the disruption to local communities but also the personal implications to them in carrying out criminal behaviour.”
It is an offence under the Criminal Justice Act 1988 to possess a sharply-pointed knife in a public space (except for a pocket-knife) unless it is being used for work, religious reasons or as part of a national costume.
A person convicted of carrying an offensive weapon in public can be jailed for up to six months on summary conviction or four years on indictment.
Moore went on to say, “Parents need to take responsibility regarding the whereabouts of their children and in supervising access to social networking sites.”
Any member of the public who witnesses unusual behaviour in their area or feels they can assist the police can contact the PSNI on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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