An investigation is underway after a group of men reportedly attempted to stop a school bus leaving Drumglass High School in Dungannon on Wednesday afternoon.
Ulster Unionist councillor for Dungannon, Ian Irwin, said he had spoken with police about the incident, which happened at home time yesterday (Thursday).
He said police informed him that “a group of approximately eight males, described to me as being from East Timor, with some reportedly wearing face coverings and some carrying bags, gathered outside the school at home time”.
“I understand they were waiting for a local pupil,” he added.
Cllr Irwin said staff at Drumglass High School acted quickly to protect the pupil.
“Credit must go to school staff, who acted quickly and escorted the pupil safely onto a bus,” he said.
“The group then reportedly attempted to prevent the bus from leaving. The bus subsequently managed to leave, and teachers escorted the males away from the school premises.
“I understand that CCTV footage will be reviewed in an effort to identify those involved.”
He said he had been in contact with police on Wednesday evening, and understood that Fermanagh & South Tyrone MLA Diana Armstrong had also been in touch with the school.
“For clarity, while some are only now arriving at the party, I was already in contact with the PSNI duty sergeant last night regarding the incident,” he said.
“This isn’t about scoring political points — it’s about getting the facts, asking the right questions and making sure that the safety of pupils and staff is taken seriously.
“Parents and the wider community will understandably want answers about what happened outside the school and what measures are being taken to prevent a repeat.
“The investigation is ongoing, so anyone with information should pass it directly to police rather than speculating publicly about the identities of those involved.
“When something this serious happens outside a school, the community deserves prompt answers, not yesterday’s news recycled as today’s discovery.”
Police confirmed they are investigating an alleged assault.
A police spokesperson said: “It was reported an altercation occurred between two male pupils at a school in the Carland Road area of the town.
“Serious injuries were not reported – and the Youth Diversion Officer has been informed of the incident.
“A number of youths with their faces covered were also observed outside the school premises later that same afternoon. No weapons were observed – or injuries reported.
“Our enquiries are ongoing – and we continue to engage with the school and those involved.
“Anyone with information that could assist is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1028 24/09/26.”
Alternatively, you can submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals
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