Ekin demands action to stop further attacks following Bedford Street murder

11.55.40am GMT Thu 7th Sep 2006

Belfast Alliance Councillor, Tom Ekin

Former Belfast Lord Mayor Tom Ekin has hit out at the perpetrators of the brutal murder of a man, who was assaulted on Bedford Street near the city centre on Saturday evening. The 56 year old man died in hospital last night and Alliance Councillor, Tom Ekin, has demanded that action must be taken to stop the despicable wave of violent attacks in that area.

Cllr Tom Ekin stated: "This incident was absolutely despicable and I am extremely saddened by the new that the man who was attacked on Saturday, died in hospital last night. My thoughts are with the family of the victim at this most difficult of times.

"There has been an disturbing spate of attacks in this area in recent months, and such acts must be stopped immediately.

"We must prevent these incidents by examining the cause of such attacks. Were the thugs who committed these attacks under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time?

"There appears to be a common thread running through these incidents and every effort must be made to explore ways of stopping this horrific violence in this area.

"I appeal to anyone with information on this attack to contact police immediately to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice."

ENDS