Two men have been arrested following reports a man – wearing a GAA top – was assaulted in Portadown on Sunday.
Shortly after 12.15pm, it was reported that the alleged victim had been entering a business premises in the Mahon Road area when two men shouted sectarian abuse at him.
A fight broke out between the men and damage was caused to a car belonging to the victim.
Taking to social media, the alleged victim said he was “shocked and saddened” about having to write such a post in 2024.
He described how he had been wearing a Mexico City GAA top when he was approached by two men who made reference to wearing a GAA top in that area.
The man then claimed to have been followed into the shop and verbally abused before being assaulted as he exited the store.
A police spokesperson said: “Officers attended the incident and two men aged 43 and 47 were arrested on suspicion of common assault and criminal damage.
“Both have since been released on bail to allow for further enquiries to be carried out.
“This is being treated as a sectarian hate crime and enquiries are ongoing. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have CCTV or other footage that could assist police is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 769 of 23/06/24.”
Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ .
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/
