A 12-year-old boy has suffered a “serious” injury to his eye after he was struck with a firework in west Belfast.
Police said the firework was thrown by a group of youths in the Stewartstown Road area of Dunmurry on Saturday.
A PSNI spokesman described it as a “reckless assault” on the young boy.
“At around 8:30pm, it was reported that a 12-year-old boy was struck in the face with a firework thrown by a group of youths in the area,” he said.
“The young male was taken to hospital for a serious injury to his eye following the incident.
“This incident was traumatic to both the young male and his family, who has suffered a serious injury as a result of this reckless assault.”
“I would ask parents to consider how they would feel, if this was their child who had endured these injuries,” he added.
“Our enquiries to identify those involved are ongoing, and we would appeal to anyone with information to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1484 12/10/24.”
Police have warned parents and guardians to speak to young people about the dangers of fireworks as the Halloween period approaches.
“They could injure themselves or others, and end up with a criminal record which would impact their future employment and travel prospects,” the spokesperson said.
“I would also remind the community that the law regarding fireworks is clear. It is illegal to possess, sell, handle or use fireworks if you do not have a licence. And you can be fined up to £5,000 for breaking the law.
Police are appealing for information following a report of a fireworks incident at the Stewartstown Road area of...
Posted by Police West Belfast on Sunday 13 October 2024
“Our officers work closely with our partner agencies to target those involved in the sale of illegal fireworks and our neighbourhood team will continue to engage with residents.
“We would ask that anyone who sees ongoing anti-social behaviour reports it to us on 101, or 999 in an emergency.
“Reporting crimes or incidents that impact on your quality of life helps us to focus our patrols where they are needed and take positive action.”
