A man has been shot in a paramilitary attack in Derry, which police described as "brutal and horrific".

It happened on Madams Bank Road in the city on Sunday night while children played nearby.

Shortly after 8pm the victim, a 44 year old man, was walking along the road with a friend he was approached by a number of males who forced him into a tunnel and shot him once in the leg. His friend was not injured during the incident. The males made off along Madams Bank Road in the direction of Carranbane Walk.

He was rushed to Altnagelvin Hospital although his injuries were not life-threatening.

SDLP councillor Brian Tierney condemned the incident, the fourth paramilitary attack in less than a fortnight.

"People in our community will be frightened to learn of another shooting taking place on our streets," he said.

Two weeks ago two women escaped injury when their nearby Racecourse Park home was shot at.

Last Tuesday, a masked gang ransacked a flat in Altcar Park in Shantallow and on Wednesday a 17-year-boy was shot as he slept in his bed when a masked gang burst into his Bogside home.

Police are appealing for information on the latest attack.

A police spokesman added: "The man was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. Whilst these injuries are not life threatening, this was a brutal and horrific attack. It is yet another example of how criminal groups seek to control communities through fear and violence."

Belfast Telegraph