Council workers assaulted following altercation

Police are appealing for information after three council workers were assaulted in Belfast on Saturday.

The incident happened at about 00:40 GMT in Little Donegall Street.

Police said three men, believed to be council workers, had been attacked by two unknown males while carrying out their duties.

Insp Knowles said: "An unknown male had approached the council workers and began being verbally abusive towards them, before physically assaulting them."

Police described one of the suspects as being of slim build with blond hair and was wearing a grey tracksuit.

"He was then joined by a second, unknown male, who also physically assaulted the men," Insp Knowles said.

The men had been punched to the face and neck, with one of the men also sustaining an injury to his hand.

All three subsequently attended the hospital for treatment to their injuries.

Belfast City Council said they offer support to workers "affected by such acts".

The council's chief executive John Walsh described the attack as "unwarranted" as the men had been "delivering key services for our city".

"I condemn it completely and urge anyone with any information to help police with their enquiries," he added.

Sinn Féin councillor Ronan McLaughlin described it as a "shocking assault" on the individuals who were "simply carrying out their jobs on behalf of the people of our city".

McLaughlin added: "I condemn those involved and want to express my thoughts and solidarity with those injured."

Alliance councillor Michael Long has urged anyone with any information to contact police.

Long said: "This is an utterly shocking incident and the actions of those responsible must be strongly condemned."