East Belfast Postman Robbed Of Mailbag

As detectives in east Belfast yesterday appealed for information after a postman was attacked, two local politicians have slammed the incident.

A PSNI statement said they were probing the assault and robbery close to commercial premises at the Bloomfield Avenue area on Thursday.

The PSNI said that it took place shortly before 10.40am, and that it was reported that a postman had not only been assaulted but also bundled into a van.

"A man in his 20s was assaulted in the area after receiving a number of punches to the back of his head.

"It is believed the man was bundled into a van nearby. It was reported that the man who carried out the attack made off with a postal bag on foot towards the Bloomfield Parade area," said the statement, which added, "Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Musgrave Street CID on 0845 6000, or they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Following the incident, the East Belfast MLA and NI Policing Board member Robin Newton condemned what he described as an attempted kidnapping near to the Connswater Shopping Centre. The victim was taken to hospital but has been discharged.

Mr Newton (pictured) said: "This is a shocking attack on someone engaged in their day's work serving the community within east Belfast.

"For such a crime to have been carried out in broad daylight is particularly concerning, but it is very possible that people locally could have witnessed those who carried out the attack.

"If there was anyone within the local area who could assist in bringing those responsible to justice then I would encourage them to contact the police.

"If the reports are correct that the victim's post-bag was taken by the attackers then it will also be concerning to people whose mail has been stolen in this fashion," he said, adding that "It is important that everyone is able to live and work free from the fear of crime and attack, but particularly for those public servants who are working in the community.

"My thoughts are with the man attacked and I would hope that those responsible can be swiftly brought to justice," the DUP MLA concluded.

Ulster Unionist East Belfast MLA, Michael Copeland has also expressed his shock at the attempted kidnapping of a postman in the Connswater area this morning.

"I am deeply shocked to learn of this attack. It is concerning that this attack took place in such a busy area and in broad daylight.

"It is particularly disturbing that the gang attempted to kidnap this young man as he was out earning a living," he said.

"This is not only an attack on the postman, but also on the whole community in east Belfast who depend on the postal service Royal Mail provide," he said, adding, "I would urge anyone who witnessed this attack or has any information to contact the PSNI immediately."

A spokesperson for Royal Mail said: "This was clearly a traumatic incident and Royal Mail would urge anyone with information to contact the PSNI."

(BMcC/GK)