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A man has suffered serious leg injuries in an apparent “punitive attack” in West Belfast.
Police believe two men dragged the man in his 40s into an alley where they shot him in what they described as a “paramilitary-style assault.”
The man received first aid at the scene by a member of the public until emergency services were able to attend.
A PSNI spokesperson said: “Detectives are investigating a paramilitary-style raid in West Belfast.
“Detectives are currently at the scene of a shooting in the Creeslough Walk area of West Belfast tonight, Sunday 25 October”.
Detective Sergeant Gardiner said: “Shortly after 8.15 pm, police were informed that two men dressed in dark clothing led a man into an alley in the area.
“The men were reported to have shot the man in the left leg. The men are believed to have fled into the Suffolk Road area after the incident.
“The man, in his 40s, was taken to hospital to receive treatment for his injuries.
“Investigations continue and, at this time, we are treating this shooting incident as a paramilitary-style assault.
“Those responsible for this barbaric act do not represent the interests of this community, nor do they contribute anything to it. They do it to try to influence, or gain control of those who claim to represent.
“An investigation is underway and I urge anyone with information to call detectives at 101 quoting reference number 1619 10/25/20.
“Information can also be provided anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Black Mountain Councilor Arder Carson said: “The incident occurred in Lenadoon in the Creeshlough Park area.
“Another victim and another person left to face the consequences of the violence.
“The community has said ‘no more’. This type of situation is getting us nowhere. At this time we have no motive for the attack and the community has repeatedly called for this kind of thing to stop.
“Hearing this tonight is very disappointing. No one needs this, no one should be subjected to this, no community needs shooting in their streets.
Police are investigating the attack on the man who is said to be 40 years old.
Paul Doherty of the SDLP said: “The people responsible for this savage attack are nothing but criminals.
“They don’t represent this community and they are not wanted in this community.
“Tonight, a man was dragged into an alley and was brutally shot in the leg.
“These types of paramilitary-style attacks have no place in our society and must stop immediately.
“We are trying to build a better West Belfast, acts like this continually push us into a darker age.”
“Those responsible must be confronted and brought to justice.
“I urge anyone with information to help the police. We need to get these people and these guns off our streets.”
The male victim was conscious and able to speak after the incident.
He was taken to hospital for treatment for what is believed to be a gunshot wound to his left leg.
Belfast City Council workers are tasked with cleaning up the area tonight.
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