Two men arrested after loaded crossbow found

The men, both aged 35, remain in custody at this time.

Police are appealing for information.
Author: Hannah PattersonPublished 29th Dec 2023

Two men have been arrested after police stopped a vehicle in Dunmurry in the early hours of this morning, (Friday 29th December).

A police spokesperson, 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 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.

A police spokesperson said: "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."

Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing, and police are appealing to anyone who may have been in the area at the time, who may have dashcam or other footage which could assist the investigation, to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 68 of 29/12/23.