Man in 20's left with fractures to hand and knee in paramilitary style attack

by Gráinne Connolly

A man in his 20's has sustained suspected fractures to his hand and knee after being attacked by a masked gang in Newtownabbey.

It happened in the Green End area shortly before 11.55pm last night, while the man was walking along a street in the area. 

Three masked men armed with what are believed to have been pick axe handles attacked him.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. 

Detective Chief Inspector Julie Mullan said, “This was a brutal attack of a man in a residential area.

"Those involved do not represent the interests of the local community and contribute nothing to it.

"This is another example of how criminal groups seek to control communities through fear and violence.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident or who saw anything suspicious in the area to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 2183 15/06/19.

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