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Police were attacked with bottles and bricks after confronting a group over a stolen car in West Belfast.

The car was reported being driven recklessly in the Divis area yesterday evening.

It had been taken from Galway Street at 7.15pm and then driven to Divis where a crowd had gathered.

Sergeant Corner said: “After a short period of reckless hand-brake turns, the vehicle was taken to Roumania Rise where they attempted to burn it out however were prevented by the fast response of Police.

“This is never acceptable but in a street where kids are playing and residents are trying to go about their business it’s sickening.

“The crowd threw missiles at police including bottles and bricks.

"Let’s be clear the people doing this are criminals who are blatantly putting the life of every resident at risk.”

He added: “I spoke to the owner of the vehicle – who is a genuinely pleasant and nice young man who had his pride and joy wrecked by cowards. It was taken for the sole reason of death-driving.

“This type of behaviour needs to be stopped. This is a group of anti-community criminals who engage in this behaviour – we know who they are but need your help in putting them before a court.

“They need to seriously grow up, get a job and contribute something to society. It will end only one of two ways if they continue down this ridiculous path. Prison or death.

“In the run up to Christmas we will be stepping up patrols and working with residents, political representatives and other agencies so the law abiding and decent folk can enjoy their Christmas.

"For those who want to engage in this type of behaviour – we will be seeing you soon.”