An Asian family has been left “deeply traumatised and fearing for their safety” after being subjected to an alleged hate crime in North Belfast
Police are investigating the alleged incident in the Crumlin Road area of the city last Thursday night.
It was reported at around 11.10pm that a man, dressed in a dark hoody and dark trousers, smashed a car window and damaged a wing mirror, before making off on foot from the scene.
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The family concerned only relocated to Northern Ireland less than two years ago and are said to be “deeply traumatised and fearing for their safety and well-being” as a result.
Expressing her unwavering support for the affected family, Ana Chandran, representing the Belfast Asian Women’s Academy, denounced the attack as entirely unprovoked.
Drawing attention to the valuable contributions made by immigrant communities to the local economy, Ms Chandran highlighted the grave implications of losing skilled professionals, such as doctors and nurses, in the event of such acts.
She added: “BAWA strongly condemns the hate crime committed against a new member of our community in Northern Ireland. While most people in Northern Ireland are welcoming, it is unfortunate that there are still bigots and racists present in our society.
“This incident has been reported to the PSNI and the local MP, and the family is receiving support from BAWA. We stand firm in our stance against hate and believe that there is no room for such prejudice in our society. We are standing in solidarity with the family.”
A PSNI statement added: “Police received a report of criminal damage to a car in the Crumlin Road area of north Belfast last Thursday, 9th May.
“It was reported at around 11.10pm that a man, dressed…
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