PSNI warn of 'incredibly dangerous and reckless' behaviour after youths seen on Glider roof
Police have urged parents to warn young people that reckless behaviour could end up with a serious injury or a criminal record, following a report of youths on the roof of a Glider in Belfast on Friday.
In a separate incident, a young child was hit by stone or rock pelted at a Glider.
The latest reports of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour, both in the west Belfast area, have prompted police to warn there will be an increased patrol of officers in the area.
A stark reminder has also been issued by a high-ranking officer that those involved in committing such offences face the very real prospect of prosecution and a criminal record.
Chief Inspector Conway said: “We received two reports yesterday, Friday, May 31, concerning Gliders that were in the Stewartstown Road area of the city.
"Shortly before 4pm it was reported youths were on a Glider roof. No damage was caused and thankfully, no injuries were reported.
"However, we cannot stress enough how incredibly dangerous and reckless this type of behaviour is and someone could end up seriously injured.
"Officers attended following this report - though no youths in the area were detected.”
At approximately 7pm, police received a second report that a stone or rock was thrown at a Glider, breaking the window and hitting a young child on their leg.
Chief Inspector Conway continued: “Thankfully, medical attention was not required and our investigation is continuing at this time to determine exactly what happened.
"Those involved in this type of behaviour need to be aware of the seriousness of their actions.
"Even a small stone can shatter a windscreen, obstruct the view of the driver and cause a collision that could result in serious injury or even death.
"Officers, including those from our Safe Transport Team will be out and about this weekend – increasing patrols in the area to prevent reoccurrences of any such reports.
"We would also ask parents and guardians to also speak to their young people and to know where they are to prevent them from engaging in behaviour which could result in injury or a criminal record.
"Enquiries into both of these reports are continuing and we would appeal to anyone with any information or who may have mobile or other footage of what happened, to contact police on 101 quoting references 1157 and 1534 31/05/24.”