Wednesday, 29 June 2022

Probe launched after PSNI/RUC officer 'apparently unintentionally' fires his weapon in West Belfast

Two police officers have been injured in incident in Townsend Street area
  Police at the incident in the Townshend               Street area on Wednesday. 

                 29th June, 2022. 
AN investigation has been launched after a PSNI/RUC firearm was discharged in West Belfast today. 

The incident happened in the area around the Welcome Centre at Townsend Street shortly before 10am.
It is understood police were called to the area amid reports of some kind of disturbance. Armed Response officers were also sent to the scene, according to sources.

Read more: Police Ombudsman advised over tragic Jody Keennan death

The incident is now the subject of an investigation by the Police Ombudsman. The PSNI says two officers sustained “minor injuries” in the incident.

In a brief statement, the PSNI said: “Police are investigating an incident where an officer unintentionally discharged their firearm in the Townsend Street area of West Belfast today, Wednesday June 29th.

“Two officers sustained minor injuries to their lower legs. As is normal procedure, the office of the Police Ombudsman have been informed.”

The Police Ombudsman’s Office confirmed they have been “notified of the discharge of a firearm by a police officer in a public place this morning (29 June)”.

A spokesperson added: “The incident occurred shortly after 10am in the Townsend Street area of Belfast. Two police officers suffered minor injuries to their legs. There are no reports that any members of the public were injured.

“Having completed preliminary inquiries, the Ombudsman has commenced a formal investigation to establish the full circumstances.

“The Ombudsman has appealed for witnesses who may have seen the incident, or who may have recorded the incident on their mobile phone or vehicle dash cam, to contact the Police Ombudsman’s witness appeal line on 0800 032 7880.”

With many thanks to: Belfast Live and Maurice Fitzmaurice for the original publication. 

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