DETECTIVES are appealing for information and witnesses following a shooting incident in west Belfast last night, Sunday 10 May.

It was reported that at around 10.30pm a 23 year old man was walking along Springhill Drive when he was approached by a lone male on a bicycle. 

He was ordered to lie down before being shot in the legs. 

He was taken to hospital for treatment for a gunshot wound to each leg.

Detective Inspector Dane said: “This was a brutal attack for which there is no justification.

“There is no place for attacks such as this in our society. 

“Nothing gives these people the right to violate the human rights of people and their actions should be condemned by all.

“Those who are involved in these attacks do not represent the interests of this community, nor do they contribute anything to it. They do it to try and exert influence, or gain control of those they claim to represent.

“Our health service colleagues have a big enough challenge on their hands as they continue protecting our community during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“The last thing they need is to deal with the aftermath of this senseless and barbaric shooting.

“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident or anyone who has information that could assist us with our enquiries to contact detectives at Musgrave on 101, quoting reference 1994 10/05/20. 

“Alternatively, information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”