Q Radio News
Police and politicians are appealing for calm in the Craigavon and Portadown areas after a series of sectarian incidents in recent days.
A bonfire was set alight early and a republican monument was attacked.
But in an incident police say could have resulted in a sectarian murder, a man was dragged from a car and assaulted by a gang of seven in front of a baby.
Police have issued the following statement:-
"The PSNI's appealing for witnesses and information following the report of an assault in the Bridge Street area of Portadown on Sunday, 1 July.
"Chief Inspector Jon Burrows said: "We received a report at approximately 3:25pm that a male passenger, aged in his 20s, was dragged by a number of males from the blue-coloured Renault Clio he was in, which had stopped at traffic lights. It was also reported the male driver, also aged in his 20s, was assaulted.
"Both men were treated at hospital for their injuries, which are not believed to be life threatening at this time. A woman and a toddler who were in the Renault Clio were not injured.
"It was also reported to police that damage was caused to the Renault Clio's windscreen and bodywork.
"Police attended the scene and subsequently arrested a 15-year-old male nearby on suspicion of a number of offences, including assault occasioning actual bodily harm and criminal damage. He has been released on bail, pending further enquiries.
"I am appealing to anyone who was in the area between 3:20pm and 3:25pm on Sunday and witnessed the assault, or any drivers who have a dash cam fitted to their vehicles to check their footage.
"Anyone with information they believe could assist our investigation is asked to contact police on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1114 of 01/07/18. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”
An important message about recent sectarian crimes and the responsibility that we all have in promoting good relations and delivering a peaceful summer.#KeepingPeopleSafe pic.twitter.com/w3w4f1ZoJe
— Arma, Banb & Crai (@PSNIABC) July 2, 2018
The local SDLP MLA and former Policing Board member Dolores Kelly has also been speaking out...
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