The PSNI are tonight treating reports of alleged assault at a school in Northern Ireland as a hate crime.
On Wednesday Belfast Model School for Girls Principal Paula Stuart posted a letter on social media to assure parents the allegation is being fully investigated and called for speculation online to cease as it is potentially fuelling tensions with the local community in North Belfast.
The PSNI launched an investigation after a number of reports of an assault at the school on Dunowen Gardens just off the Oldpark Road on Tuesday.
READ MORE: Belfast school assault being investigated by police
READ MORE: Principal calls for speculation to cease after alleged assault at school
A statement from the PSNI on Wednesday night said: "Police have received a number of reports of an assault which occurred at a school in North Belfast on Tuesday 12th November."
Chief Inspector Alan Lowry said: “Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances of the incident, which is being investigated as a hate crime. Officers are liaising with key stakeholders in relation to this matter.
“We would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this matter, to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1160 12/11/24. Alternatively, you can submit a report online or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”
The alleged incident in the playground on Tuesday, November 12, was apparently witnessed by members of staff, with a local MLA saying the incident has caused "huge concern" among the school community.
The school said the incident it is being dealt with in line with Education Authority guidelines while the Education Authority said there is no evidence to support inaccurate claims being expressed around social media regarding pupil safety at the school.
Click this link or scan the QR code to receive breaking news and top stories from Belfast Live. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
English (United States) ·