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22 Apr 2026
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22 Apr 2026
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Two teenage boys were left needing hospital treatment after being assaulted in a North Lanarkshire country park by a group of males wearing balaclavas and carrying weapons.
Police said the “frightening” incident happened on Monday evening in Drumpellier Country Park in Coatbridge.
They said in the late afternoon a large group of youths had entered the park via Blair Road and headed along the canal path to a clearing in the woods.
Between 6pm and 7pm, a “disturbance” is then said to have occurred between the youths and another group of males, all dressed in black clothing and balaclavas and carrying weapons.
Police said the males chased the youths onto the canal path, where two boys, aged 15 and 16, were “seriously assaulted”.
They attended hospital for treatment to serious injuries and were later discharged.
Police said inquiries to establish the full circumstances of what happened are ongoing.
They appealed for anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Detective Constable Carla O’Neill said: “It’s vital we trace the people responsible for this frightening attack on a group of teenagers.
“The park and surrounding paths are used and enjoyed by the public, and this type of reckless act has no place in our community.
“I’m appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
“I understand those who were attending the youths’ planned gathering may be concerned about speaking to the police but I want to reassure you: we’re trying to find out exactly what happened to your friends and we need your help. Please come forward.
“I’d also ask other members of the public who may be able to assist our inquiries to get in touch.
“Were you in the area at the time and saw a large group of people?
“Do you have private CCTV, doorbell or dash-cam footage which might help? If you do, please call us.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 0390 of April 21, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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