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Police issue appeal for information into ‘homophobic hate crime’

Police have today issued an appeal for information following a homophobic attack in which five people were injured.

It followed an altercation in the vicinity of the Mall in Newry.

It happened at around 2.38am on Sunday, September 4.

Police said five people were assaulted and received injuries as a result of the incident.

Chief Inspector Gillian West said: “I would appeal to anyone who has any information about this incident, which

“Police are treating as a homophobic hate crime, to contact Police at Newry on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 231 04/09/16.

“Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Independent Newry City Councillor Kevin McAteer has condemned those responsible and described it as an “attack on the entire community”.

“I fully condemn this attack on members of Newry Rainbow Community,” he said.

“The incident occurred following the gay pride ball at the end of such a successful pride week.

“Pride week was extremely successful and the NRC organised a wonderful event and this attack is nothing short of disgraceful.

“I hope those attacked make a full recovery and I call on anyone with any information to come forward.”

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