12-year-old among two charged as family injured in ‘racially motivated’ attack on home

The incident occurred around 12:40 this morning

A 12-year-old was among two charged following a racially motivated attack in South Belfast in the early hours of Thursday morning.

At approximately 12.40am, police received a report of a disturbance in the area of Donegall Avenue. A property came under attack and residents were injured by a group of young people.

Two people, aged 12 and 18 years old, were arrested and charged on suspicion of riotous behaviour and remain in police custody.

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The 12-year-old male is due to appear at Belfast Youth Court on Monday 22 September. An 18 year old male is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates Court on Thursday 25 September.

As is normal procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service

South Belfast District Commander Superintendent Finola Dornan said: “This incident was exceptionally serious involving the targeting of a family in their own home, motivated by racial hatred.

“Our officers acted quickly and effectively, making two arrests, however the ages of those involved are of particular concern.

“Racist intimidation and targeting is completely unacceptable. I would like to reassure the entire local community that we will continue to be visible so as to prevent and detect offending of this nature, holding those responsible to account through the courts.

“We will carry out a full and thorough investigation to identify all those responsible.

“This behaviour does not reflect the people of the local area. No family should have to go through this and the harm is felt by everyone in the community.

“Our enquiries remain ongoing and we would appeal for anyone who has any information any information, CCTV or other footage that could assist with our enquiries, to contact police on 101 quoting reference 30 28/08/25.

“Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. “You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”