Man nailed to fence and vans set on fire in ‘sinister’ midnight attack as cops investigate
A MAN has been left with "potentially life-changing injuries" after his hands were nailed to a fence in Northern Ireland.
The shocking incident happened in Bushmills, Antrim, in the early hours of this morning.
The man, aged in his 20s, was discovered with a nail through each hand.
He also had injuries to his nose and is being treated in hospital where his condition is described as not life-threatening.
Two vans including one belonging to the injured man were found on fire in a public car park near Dundarave Park.
Firefighters were called to the scene and extinguished the fires but the motors were badly damaged.
The victim is believed to be from the Carrickfergus area of Antrim.
Fire crews had to use saws to free him from the fence.
The PSNI has said graffiti found on a nearby gable wall of public toilets is being linked to the assault and arson.
Detective Inspector Lyttle said: “This was a sinister attack which has left this man with potentially life-changing injuries.
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"Everyone has the right to live their life free from the threat of violence and this brutal attack by people who violate the human rights of others must be universally condemned.
"We live in a democratic society where there is no justification for this.
"Those responsible brutalise their own communities and control others through intimidation and violence.
“This happened in a residential area with a number of holiday lets which would be busy during this bank holiday weekend and we are asking anyone who noticed anything or who may have dashcam footage to contact us urgently on or confidently to Crimestoppers.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time and has any information, including dash-cam or other footage, to contact police on 101 quoting reference 13 of 05/05/24.”
Causeway Alliance councillor Alderman Richard Stewart said there is "deep shock" in the area today.
He told : "This is not wanted in Bushmills, it's not wanted in Northern Ireland. This is a thing of the past.
"The local community is in deep shock at the nature and brutality of this attack."
Some 20 camper vans were in the car park for the bank holiday weekend when the attack happened.
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The area is a popular stopping point for holidaymakers visiting the Giant's Causeway.
The National Trust uses the spot as a park and ride facility as the attraction is 2km away.
