Police in east Belfast received a report of a serious assault at 7.30pm on Saturday October 21st.

Chief Inspector Rosie Thompson said: “Our officers received a report that a man had been assaulted by a group of people in the Bloomfield Avenue area.

“The victim suffered facial injuries which required hospital treatment.

“We are treating this incident as a hate crime.

“Our investigation is continuing and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time the assault took place or who may have captured mobile or dash-cam footage to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 1463 21/10/23.”

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.