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31 Jan 2026
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31 Jan 2026
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Three council workers have been attacked while on duty in Belfast City Centre.
Detectives have appealed for information about the assaults which occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning.
A PSNI spokesperson said: “We received a number of reports at around 12.40am that three men, believed to be council workers, had been attacked by two unknown males while carrying out their duties in the Little Donegall Street area.
Appeal for information after assaults on council workers in Belfast City Centre. Details here: https://t.co/lVwG1uXacn pic.twitter.com/vPxy72dA3p
— Police Belfast City Centre (@PSNIBelfast) January 31, 2026
“Officers spoke with all three of the injured men, who had been punched to the face and neck, with one of the men also sustaining an injury to his hand.
“It was reported that an unknown male had approached the council workers and began being verbally abusive towards them, before physically assaulting them.
“He was then joined by a second, unknown male, who also physically assaulted the men.”
Police said one of the suspects was described as being of slim build with blond hair and was wearing a grey tracksuit.
All three injured men were treated in hospital for their injuries.
The police spokesperson added: “Our council workers are a vital part of our community and assaults on them whilst doing their job will not be tolerated.
“I would urge anyone who may have been in the area and witnessed this to come forward and assist us with our inquiries, which are ongoing.
“Anyone who has any information that might assist can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 61 of 31/01/26.”
John Walsh, chief executive of Belfast City Council, said the council has a zero-tolerance policy in relation to workplace violence or abuse of staff.
He said: “This was an unwarranted attack on three council workers, simply out doing their job and delivering key services for our city.
“I condemn it completely and urge anyone with any information to help police with their inquiries.”
Sinn Fein councillor Ronan McLaughlin also condemned the attack.
He said: “This was a shocking assault on these workers simply carrying out their jobs on behalf of the people of our city.
“I condemn those involved and want to express my thoughts and solidarity with those injured. I hope they make a full and speedy recovery.
“Anyone with information should come forward immediately to the police.”
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