Man shot in legs and elbows in Belfast

PSNI appeals to anyone with information who was in Divismore Park area of west Belfast to come forward

epa07261133 (FILE) - Northern Ireland's PSNI crest outside Antrim police station in Antrim, Northern Ireland, 02 May 2014 (reissued 04 January 2019). British media reports on 04 January 2019 state Police Service of Northern Ireland, PSNI has asked up to 1,000 officers to be deployed in Northern Ireland as a reinforcement in case of a no-deal Brexit. Authorities fear violence could occur if a hard border will be established between EU member Ireland and Northern Ireland.  EPA/PAUL MCERLANE
The PSNI is investigating the Tuesday evening attack in west Belfast. Photograph: Paul McErlane

A man has been shot in both legs and elbows in Belfast.

Police have condemned the incident as a “stark violation” of the human rights of the victim. Officers remained at the scene of the shooting in the Divismore Park area in the west of the city on Tuesday night.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Shortly before 8.10pm this evening, it was reported that a man had been shot in both legs and elbows.

“He has been taken to hospital to receive medical treatment for his injuries.

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“Road closures are currently in place at Divismore Way and Glenalina Road as the investigation is under way.

“Our investigation is at an early stage and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, and may have any information which could assist us, to get in touch.

“The injuries inflicted on the victim are a stark violation of his basic human rights. There is no justification for this type of violence. Attacks like these not only place the victim at risk, but also the local community.”

“The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 1883 of 14/02/23.”

Condemnation

People Before Profit councillor Matt Collins condemned the “paramilitary style shooting”.

He said: “Those responsible are heaping further misery on working class communities, which are racked with poverty and social deprivation.

“The perpetrators of such attacks seek to control people through fear and intimidation.

“They have nothing to offer west Belfast or anywhere else. They should get off our communities’ backs.” - PA