Derry shooting branded ruthless and sickening

A brutal attack in which a man in his 50s was shot in both legs in the Currynierin area of Derry has been branded despicable.

Shortly before 11pm on Thursday, it was reported that two men forced their way inside a house in Whitethorn Drive and shot the victim a number of times in his legs. He was taken to hospital for treatment.

Detective Sergeant Galbraith said: “This was a ruthless attack that should be of concern to everyone in the community and I would appeal for anyone with information about who is involved to come forward. Those who carry out these shootings have no regard for the trauma they are causing either to the victim or anyone in the vicinity of the attack.

The attack was the second in the city in two days after a man in his 20s was shot in the Bogside.

The Chair of the Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership, Councillor Martin Reilly, “The horrific shooting of this man stands in stark contrast to the great community spirit that we have in this city and district.”

Sinn Fein Councillor Paul Fleming said: “These attacks need to stop immediately. There is no place for these type of incidents in our society and those behind them need to realise that and go away.”

SDLP Councillor Sean Mooney meanwhile said: “It is clear that those responsible have no concern for the residents living in Currynierin nor do they represent the interests of those who live and reside in this community. Our thoughts should be with the victim and his immediate family and if anyone has any information on this attack they should bring it to the attention of the police”

Det. Sgt Galbraith urged anyone with information to phone quoting reference number 2083 15/04/21, or submit a report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/, or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/