South Belfast 'crime hotspot'

South Belfast is the crime hotspot of the North, the SDLP said today.

There were 9,154 crimes between April and the end of November this year and Assemblywoman Carmel Hanna called for attacks to stop.

On Christmas Day a man living in Myrtlefield Park, off the Lisburn Road, suffered cuts and bruises after being punched in the face by an assailant trying to steal his car.

“It is my belief that many of these crimes have been perpetrated on the people of South Belfast by those from outside the area, particularly those who come into the area and who have been brought up in a culture of contempt for the rights of others,” Ms Hanna said.

“This culture has to be brought to an end and any ambivalence towards the basics of a peaceful society where the rule of law is paramount must be confronted and brought to an end.”

There were 3,082 thefts, 2,152 assaults, 1,854 cases of criminal damage and 908 of car crime.

The South Belfast District Command Unit includes the city centre, where some assaults happen after late-night drinking. It also contains a number of housing estates.

“South Belfast is seen as easy pickings by some people and there are so many people here who have a contempt for law and order and for fellow human beings,” Ms Hanna added.

“Anyone who breaks into someone’s car on Christmas Day, hits them and tries to steal the car has no respect for the law or people.”