18-Year-Old Shot In Both Ankles In ‘Paramilitary-Style’ Attack In Belfast

A young man in Belfast has been shot in both ankles in what has been described as a "brutal and despicable attack".

PSNI detectives have appealed for information following the 'paramilitary-style' shooting which occurred in the Pembroke Loop Road area of Dunmurry at 8.30pm yesterday.

According to The Belfast Telegraph, the 18-year-old victim was taken to hospital and his injuries have been described as 'life-changing'.

Detective Sergeant Wilson said: “This was a brutal and despicable attack, which has left the young victim with potentially life changing injuries and it is yet another example of how criminal groups seek to control communities through fear and violence."

SDLP councillor Brian Heading said: “This brutal attack and all forms of summary justice are opposed by this community.

“I understand that an 18 year old man was shot in both ankles in a paramilitary style attack.

“I want to thank the emergency services for their swift action this evening. It’s utter madness that criminals would carry out an attack like this two days before Christmas.

“There remains a group of individuals who defy the will of this community for peace. Those who have brought violence onto our streets need to understand, and they need to be made to understand, that they represent no one.

“I would urge anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Pembroke Loop Road area to get in touch with the PSNI or with Crimestoppers. We need to take back our communities from these people. That can only be done if people volunteer information."

Detectives investigating the case are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.