A rower has been injured and significant damage caused to a rowing boat after fireworks were reportedly thrown at people boating on the River Lagan.
Police are again warning of the dangers of misusing fireworks following the incident on Tuesday (6 October) at the Ormeau Road Bridge in South Belfast.
A small amount of fireworks was recovered and a 12-year-old boy was taken home and cautioned in the presence of his parents. He will now be referred to the youth diversion officer.
Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said unfortunately, at this time of year we begin to see an increase in incidents involving fireworks.
“The misuse of fireworks, which are essentially made up of explosive materials, is an extremely reckless act, which can result in serious harm and life changing injuries. This irresponsible action not only threatened the life of the people using boats on the river, but also of the person throwing the fireworks and those who were also present at that time,” he said.
Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said it is illegal to possess, sell, handle or use fireworks if you do not have a licence and if detected, you can be fined up to £5,000 for breaking the law.
“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident who has yet to come forward, to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1388 of 6 October 2020. I would also ask anyone with information about the illegal sale of fireworks to contact police so we can address this issue.
“You can also submit an online report using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous,” he added.