Boy Seriously Injured in Dunmurry Fireworks Attack

Police are appealing for witnesses after a 12-year-old boy was seriously injured in a fireworks attack in Dunmurry on Saturday, 12 October.

The incident occurred around 8:30pm in the Stewartstown Road area. According to reports, the boy was struck in the face with a firework thrown by a group of youths. He was subsequently taken to a hospital for treatment of a serious eye injury.

Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has any information to come forward.

Belfast Area Chief Inspector Dunne said: "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. 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. "As we approach the Halloween period, I would ask local parents and guardians to speak to their young people about where they are and who they are with, and to warn them of the dangers of getting involved in this type of behaviour. They could injure themselves or others, and end up with a criminal record which would impact their future employment and travel prospects.

"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.

"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."