Man attacked and knocked unconscious twice within weeks

Police are appealing for information after a man was assaulted and knocked unconscious by multiple men in north Belfast twice in less than a month.

The first attack on the man, who is in his 40s, happened on the Oldpark Road, close to its junction with Ballynure Street, at about 23:00 GMT on Tuesday 18 November.

Police said he was "tackled to the ground" by up to three men, and lost consciousness. He was taken to hospital for treatment to a head injury.

The victim was attacked in the same area and at about the same time on Saturday 13 December, again by three men.

He was kicked and punched and again lost consciousness. He was treated in hospital for injuries to his face.

The three attackers were wearing dark hooded tops and came from the direction of Gracehill Court.

"At present we are working to identify if these three suspects were involved in the first assault last month," Det Sgt Faulkner said.

"The victim has understandably been left shocked and fearful by what has happened."

The detective said police are also trying to establish a motive for the attacks and have appealed for anyone who had any information about them to contact the PSNI.

The first assault was not reported to police until Wednesday 17 December and police have appealed to anyone who has been the victim of crime "to please report it to us immediately so we can investigate accordingly, we are here to help you".