Teenager shot in both legs in 'paramilitary style shooting' in Belfast

So called 'knee-capping' or 'punishment shootings' in Belfast are traditionally associated with paramilitary groups, such as The IRA

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has warned that the group's activities appear to be increasing and speculated that this may be partly connected to the centenary anniversary of the Easter Rising (Getty)

A teenager has been shot in both legs in a “paramilitary style” attack in West Belfast.

The 17-year-old victim was shot in the Ardmonagh Parade area of the city. The attack happened at around 19:05 last night.

A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) told The Independent: “Just after 7:05pm, police received a report that a 17 year old male had been shot in both legs in the area.

“He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.”

So called “knee capping” shootings, whereby a victim is shot through both knee caps, are traditionally associated with paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland, such as the IRA. A spokesperson for the PSNI described yesterday’s attack as “a paramilitary style shooting”.

Anyone with any information relating to the attack is asked to contact detectives at Musgrave Police Station by phoning 101, or to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 anonymously.