12 year old boy attacked in sectarian hate crime in Derry

A 12-year-old boy has been treated for concussion after what police have described as a sectarian hate crime in Derry on Monday (May 29).

The youngster was allegedly kicked on the leg and punched in the face during the attack near the city's walls. It occurred in the Fountain area of the city on Monday afternoon.

Three teenage boys and a teenage girl are believed to have been involved.

Inspector Michael Gahan said the attack was a "nasty assault which has left the victim understandably distressed" and is "being investigated as a sectarian hate crime."

Police said the victim was treated in hospital for injuries which included a concussion.

SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood MP condemned the attack saying sectarianism and sectarian-motivated violence have no place in Derry and Northern Ireland.

The Foyle MP said: “It’s up to us as a society to foster reconciliation, bridge divisions, and build understanding based on respect between our communities at a young age.

"A new generation of young people, free from the sectarian shackles of the past, must be allowed to flourish in Derry and across Ireland.

“Our young people should not live in fear in their own city, and I hope the boy who was attacked is feeling better soon. I would encourage anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist the police in their investigation."