A young woman was taken to hospital on Tuesday evening after she was 'struck on the head with a brick'. Police officers in Belfast have since issued a "direct appeal" to the parents and guardians of young people in the city.
Officers say they received a report at around 10.20pm last night that a 15-year-old girl had been 'hit on the head by a brick' while in the Broadway area of South Belfast. She was taken to hospital for treatment but her injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.
Chief Inspector Conway said: "A 15-year-old boy has since been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. He is expected to appear before Belfast Youth Court on Monday, 28th April.
"It's only through sheer luck that we aren't looking at much more serious consequences for this young girl. Young people have been gathering in the area each evening; behaving recklessly, dangerously and, in some instances, criminally with little regard for other members of the public and local residents. This behaviour has to stop before someone is hurt, or worse.
"We are in the area each evening, providing a visible policing presence and liaising with community representatives, but today I want to ask local parents - do you know where your children are, and who they are with?
"Speak to the young people in your life about the dangers of getting involved in this type of behaviour. Ultimately, they could end up with a criminal record which may impact their future employment and travel prospects."
Chief Inspector Conway continued: "We understand the concerns of local residents and the wider public regarding this ongoing anti-social behaviour and are committed to continuing our work alongside partner agencies, local representatives and the community to address this issue.
"We all have a responsibility to help make where we live safer for everyone. Reporting crimes or incidents that impact on your quality of life helps focus our patrols where they are needed and take positive action. Ring us on 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.
"Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk."
Sinn Féin councillor Ciaran Beattie said: "Although the young girl was hospitalised, thankfully her injuries are not serious and my thoughts are with her and her family.
"Those young people who continue to gather with the intent on causing trouble and havoc in this area must stop, and parents should also know where their children are. Local residents have simply had enough of the unacceptable actions of a minority.
"Sinn Féin has been consistently engaging with partners and residents in the community, and we will continue working to ensure this area is calm and peaceful."
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