Police Ombudsman informed after PSNI officers use taser on youth in north Belfast

POLICE investigating an assault on a PSNI officer have released five youths from custody.

They were detained on Tuesday night in north Belfast after officers used a taser gun to restrain of the young males.

The PSNI say the five have been released pending further inquiries.

The Police Ombudsman is now investigating the circumstances surrounding the use of the taser.

Officers were responding to a report that a car had been damaged in the area on Tuesday evening.

When they entered a property in Alexandra Park Avenue, they were confronted by five youths reportedly armed with iron bars and knives.

The PSNI say that the officers called for the young people to put down their weapons.

A PSNI spokesman added: “In the ensuing events, a police officer sustained injuries to his hand and face.”

Five youths were arrested following the incident and currently in custody being questioned about possessing of offensive weapons and assault on a police officer.