Belfast community farm hits out after "bricks thrown" and member of staff threatened by group of youths

Sophie McLaughlin

21 June 2024 at 2:47 pm·2-min read

A West Belfast community farm has spoken out after reports a group of young people "threw bricks" and threatened a member of staff.

St James Community Farm took to social media to ask for community support after the incident on June 20 that left their animals "terrified".

In the post, they reported that 10 male youths attacked the farm with bricks. Police have confirmed they attended the scene, with an officer being struck by an object.

A spokesperson for St James Community Farm said: "They got into animal field and verbally threatened a female member of staff.

"This has been a regular occurrence for the last 3 weeks. We have had wooden pallets that the goats use taken and burnt and the goats playground damaged.

"The animals were terrified last night with the bricks hitting the metal of our building. From this evening the farm volunteers will be there monitoring farm.

"We would appreciate any support from members of the community and animals will be brought in early."

A PSNI spokesperson said that when officers attended, a number of items were thrown at the police vehicle which led to the officer being struck by an object thrown before the young people dispersed.

Inspector Ross Hakin said: "I am appealing to parents to know where your children are and advise them against becoming involved in anti-social behaviour.

"Officers continue to work alongside partner agencies, local representatives and the community to find collaborative and proactive solutions to address the problem.

"We are committed to working towards a solution and welcome any information from the public and local elected representatives to inform what we are doing.

"Our officers continue to provide a visible policing presence throughout west Belfast. We constantly monitor crime trends and deploy our resources to the areas of greatest need and vulnerability and regularly run targeted policing operations, working alongside partners to address community concerns.

“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, report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or speak directly to your Neighbourhood Team."

A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

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