Two men have been arrested after officers on patrol stopped a vehicle in Dunmurry in the early hours of this morning, Friday 29th December.
Area Commander for West Belfast, Chief Inspector Claire Hamilton, said: "Local policing officers were on patrol on Blacks Road around 4.00am when they noted a vehicle being driven erratically. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop for police and a short pursuit followed.
"After the vehicle came to a halt, those on board attempted to run from our officers. Two men were apprehended nearby and when the vehicle was searched a loaded crossbow was found in the boot.
"A 35-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, taking a motor vehicle without authority, dangerous driving, driving whilst unfit, driving whilst disqualified, and failing to stop for police.
"The second man, also aged 35, was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, and allowing himself to be carried in a vehicle taken without authority.
"Both men remain in custody at this time.
"I want to commend our officers for their proactive policing. This is an excellent example of officers on routine patrol doing what they do best – keeping people safe.
“The vehicle was stopped before there could be serious consequences, and a dangerous weapon has been removed from our streets. Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing, and we would appeal to anyone who may have been in the area at the time, who may have dashcam or other footage which could assist our investigation, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 68 of 29/12/23.”
A report can also be made online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/