12-year-old boy cautioned after fireworks thrown at boats on Lagan injuring rower

By Q Radio News

A rower has been injured after a group of youths threw fireworks into boats sailing on the river Lagan. 

A boat was also significantly damaged as a result of the ''extremely reckless act''. 

Police stopped a group matching the description of young people who were seen on the Ormeau Road bridge at around 4.30pm on Tuesday.  

Officers recovered a small amount of fireworks and a 12-year-old boy was taken home and cautioned in relation to a number of offences in front of his parents. 

He is also being referred to a youth diversion officer.  

Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said: “Unfortunately, at this time of year we begin to see an increase in incidents involving fireworks. 

“The misuse of fireworks, which are essentially made up of explosive materials, is an extremely reckless act, which can result in serious harm and life changing injuries.  

“This irresponsible action not only threatened the life of the people using boats on the river, but also of the person throwing the fireworks and those who were also present at that time.

“It is illegal to possess, sell, handle or use fireworks if you do not have a licence and if detected, you can be fined up to £5,000 for breaking the law.

“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident who has yet to come forward, to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1388 of 6 October 2020.”

Police have also appealed for information about the illegal sale of fireworks. 

South Belfast SDLP Councillor Gary McKeown has condemned those who he said put lives at risk. 

"Throwing fireworks at people is complete madness and risks the lives not only of those on the receiving end, but also those responsible.

"It's particularly shocking that people rowing on the Lagan were reportedly targeted, given how vulnerable someone would be in the middle of the river. 

"At the time of the evening when these incidents were reported to have happened, the area would have also been very busy with walkers and cyclists on Ormeau Bridge and along the embankment, which makes this even more concerning. It does not bear thinking about what could have happened.

"I would urge parents to make sure they know where their young people are, and ask young people to think twice before doing anything which could cause injury to others or yourself, and land you in serious trouble.

"My thoughts are with those who were affected by these incidents, and I hope it doesn't put them off returning to the river.''