Police officers attacked in Christmas Day scrambler incident

Two police officers have been injured while dealing with reports of antisocial behaviour, involving scrambler bikes, on Christmas Day in west Belfast.

One officer had a glass bottle thrown at him, cutting his hand and a second was kicked multiple times.

It happened in Twinbrook at about 11:00 GMT.

Police had received a number of reports of scrambler bikes being driven in Bell Steele Road, Glenbawn and the Stewartstown Road.

When the officers arrived they were surrounded by a large group in Glasvey Drive, and were assaulted.

One man, aged 34, was arrested on suspicion of a number of driving offences, including dangerous driving and use of a motorcycle failing to wear protective headgear.

He has since been released on police bail to allow for further enquiries.

Police said it was fortunate the incident had not been "much more serious".

"We urge the public to think about their use of scrambler and to learn the legalities surrounding their use. Scramblers do not generally comply with construction and use legislation and vehicle standards so are therefore, restricted to off-road use only," said the Police Service of Northern Ireland's (PSNI) Insp McCann.

"Our officers work tirelessly to protect our communities and do not deserve to be assaulted for simply doing their job."

An investigation has been launched to identify the suspects, and police are appealing for information.