A WOMAN HAS been hospitalised with facial injuries after she was struck by a firework which was aimed at police in South Belfast, the PSNI has said. 

The firework missed officers who were patrolling in Belfast city centre last night, and instead hit a woman in her 30s, resulting in burns and swelling to her face. 

One person was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault, possession of fireworks without a license, and possessing an offensive weapon in public, thanks to the swift action of local police. 

Superintendent Finola Dornan said that officers provided first aid to the women at the scene, and she was then treated further at hospital. 

Dornan added that her thoughts go out to the victim who was injured in what was a “very traumatic experience”. 

“I am pleased that by the effective actions of local police, an individual will be held to account, having been interviewed and released on police bail pending further enquiries,” she added. 

Dornan said that assault on police working to protect communities are totally unacceptable, “yet all too common”. 

She said that police patrols will be out and about in Northern Ireland over the Halloween period in order to deter anti-social behaviour. 

“We want everyone to stay safe this Halloween and have a fun, enjoyable night and for many this also involves knowing the law on firework safety to ensure everyone can protect themselves from severe burns and injury,” Dornan said.

The PSNI are appealing for witnesses to last night’s incident.

Anyone who witnessed what happened yesterday or has mobile, dash-cam or CCTV footage that could help the investigation is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1552 23/10/23.