Police are appealing for information and witnesses after criminal damage was caused to a building in the Great Northern Street area of south Belfast.

A report was received today that at approximately 10.20pm on Wednesday, 11th December a number of windows were smashed at the property.

South Belfast Neighbourhood Inspector Róisín Brown said: “We are treating this report as a hate crime, and we want to hear from anyone who was in the area between 10pm and 10.20pm yesterday evening and observed anything suspicious.

“Enquiries are continuing, and we are especially keen to hear from anyone who noticed three teenage boys in the area at the time of the report.

“One of whom was wearing a blue top and grey jogging bottoms, as well as a mask and gloves.

“The other two suspects were wearing all black clothing with hoods and gloves. They all made off on foot in the direction of Donegal Avenue towards Tate’s Avenue Bridge.

“Anyone who witnessed what happened or has CCTV, dash-cam or other mobile footage is asked to make contact with police on 101, quoting reference number 305 12/12/24.”

A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org