A 16-year-old boy has been arrested after a 15-year old boy sustained facial injuries when he was attacked by a group of youths in west Belfast.
On Tuesday evening, a group of ten youths were videoed attacking the Middle Eastern Market.
The victim, a 15-year-old boy, sustained facial injuries during the attack.
The owner of the Middle Eastern Market said he has no option but to close the shop for good after the latest attack.
A 14-year-old boy has been cautioned over the assault.
In a statement, police said a 16-year old boy has now been arrested.
A spokesperson said: “Police in west Belfast, investigating the report of a race hate-related assault on the Falls Road on Tuesday 6th August, in which a 15-year-old boy was assaulted, have arrested a 16-year-old boy on suspicion of riotous behaviour, common assault and criminal damage.
“The boy remains in custody at this time assisting officers with their enquiries. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 1284 06/08/24 or online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report.”
Police confirmed they have received two previous reports of anti-social behaviour at the premises owned by Ali Moustafa Wartty this year.
The businessman previously accused police of not doing enough to protect his property.
The PSNI has said officers attended each of these reports and have engaged with the owner.
However, the Belfast Telegraph understands that officers did not respond to an incident in June involving a bin being set on fire because it was reported two days after the incident.
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Today, West Belfast Area Commander Chief Inspector Claire Hamilton said the racist attack and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.
“We are aware of ongoing anti-social behaviour in the Falls Road area and are committing to working with the community and partners to find long-lasting solutions,” she added.
“The race hate-related assault and anti-social behaviour in the area last night will not be tolerated. A 15-year-old boy was assaulted, in what was a terrifying ordeal and a 14-year-old boy was later cautioned. I want to thank members of the local community who attended and prevented the situation from escalating.
“I encourage anyone with concerns in their area, or who have been a victim of a hate crime, to contact Police on 101 or online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report.”
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