Police arrested a 22-year-old man in Portadown, Co Armagh, following reports of him assaulting children and shouting racial slurs. The incident occurred in the Park Road area on Sunday evening, 8 March.

Officers received a report of disorderly behaviour shortly before 6pm. On arrival at around 5.55pm, they learned the man had assaulted children and used racist language.

When police approached, the man fled on foot. Officers pursued and detained him at the side of the Northway, across from the train station, as a group of young people watched.

The man faces suspicion of common assault and disorderly behaviour. He remains in custody.

Police classify the matter as a racially-motivated hate crime. Enquiries continue.

Witnesses should contact police on 101, quoting reference 1316 08/03/26.

Sinn Féin Councillor Catherine Nelson condemned the incident. She stated racism has no place in society and urged witnesses to assist police.