Gang attacks officer in Special Branch office raid

A major investigation was launched today after a gang burst into an anti-terror unit at a Belfast police station and assaulted and tied up an officer.

Police said it was too early to say if any documents had been stolen during the raid at the Special Branch office.

A lone officer was in the office at Castlereagh police station in the east of the city when several intruders got in last night.

He was attacked and after a struggle was tied up before the gang made their getaway.

‘‘The entire area around the office has been sealed off and a meticulous forensic examination which will take some considerable time is under way,’’ said a Police Service of Northern Ireland spokesman.

Police are also combing the whole station for clues.

The spokesman added: ‘‘Until this is completed it’s not possible to state whether documentation or other material has been taken.’’