A man is recovering in hospital after suffering a brutal assault at the hands of a gang of masked men in east Belfast. The shocking incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday morning, leaving the local community shaken.
Violent Break-In in Loopland Park
According to police, the gang, believed to be made up of up to eight individuals, forced their way into a home in Loopland Park shortly after midnight.
“At approximately 12.20am, it was reported that approximately eight masked men, armed with what is believed to have been bats and hammers, called at a property in Loopland Park,” confirmed Detective Sergeant Kitchen of the PSNI.
The group didn’t hesitate. Once inside, they launched a violent attack on the resident, inflicting serious injuries to the man’s head and body.
“The men forced their way inside and assaulted the resident, causing injuries to their head and body. The victim was taken to the hospital, where they received treatment for their injuries.”
No Arrests Made Yet
The attackers fled the scene immediately after the assault. No arrests have been made so far, and the motive behind the attack remains unclear.
This alarming act of violence has left many locals concerned for their safety. The use of weapons and the coordinated nature of the break-in points to a deliberate and targeted assault.
Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen the masked men in the area or who might have CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage from around the time of the incident to come forward.
Police say even the smallest piece of evidence could prove crucial.
Loopland Park, typically a quiet residential area, has been rocked by the aggression displayed in the attack. Neighbours have expressed fear over the gang’s boldness and the apparent lack of warning.
One local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It’s terrifying to think something like this could happen here. We don’t know who’s responsible or why, and that’s the scariest part.”
The violence in this case was not random. A gang, armed and masked, entered a home in the dead of night and left someone badly injured. This attack wasn’t just a disturbance; it was a calculated assault. Anyone with information is asked to contact the PSNI immediately.
