Incident Details

According to a ​police spokesperson, the incident began near Fountain Lane.The man reportedly turned towards the⁤ mother‌ and ⁣child and threatened them with⁣ what she⁢ believed to be a broken bottle or piece of broken ⁤glass, demanding she exit the vehicle.

Following ⁢the mother and child leaving the car, the vehicle was driven towards City Hall and then onto Chichester Street.⁢ It was later​ located in ‌Upper⁣ stanfield Street.

Thankfully, both the mother and child were⁤ unharmed, though understandably shaken by the experience.⁣ ⁣Police have described the incident as “absolutely shocking” and “an extremely distressing ordeal.”

Police Investigation ⁤and Appeal for Details

Police are actively investigating ⁤the incident and‌ are requesting assistance from the public. Anyone who was in the area at the time‌ and‌ witnessed anything suspicious,‍ or who may have​ relevant CCTV or dashcam footage, is urged to contact the Police​ Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) on 101, ⁢quoting reference⁣ number⁣ 211 ‍25/10/25.

Political Response ⁢and‌ Concerns About City Centre Safety

Sinn Féin councillor Ciaran Beattie condemned ⁣the incident as “disgraceful” and announced the‌ formation of a⁣ taskforce to address rising crime and anti-social behavior in Belfast city centre. Beattie highlighted cross-party support for‍ the initiative within the⁢ Belfast City Council.

“The recent rise in crime ⁤in‌ the city centre is concerning,” ⁤Beattie ⁤stated. “We will continue working with others⁣ to address this and ensure our city ​centre is⁣ safe and welcoming.”