Taxi Driver Shot in West Belfast: Police Investigate Targeted Attack

A taxi driver is in critical but stable condition after being shot in west Belfast on Sunday morning. According to police reports, two masked men approached the parked taxi and fired shots through the window, hitting the driver. The attack occurred at 10:30 GMT in the Bell Steel Manor area of Dunmurry, prompting road closures and an ongoing police investigation. Authorities are also examining potential links to a taxi driver shot in Belfast amid a gang feud, as concerns grow over violence in the area.

Emergency Response and Road Closures

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) dispatched a rapid response paramedic and an emergency ambulance crew to the scene. The injured driver received immediate medical treatment before being transported to Royal Victoria Hospital. Police have since closed Bell Steel Road, near the Laurelbank junction, as investigations continue.

Political and Community Reactions

Local politicians and community leaders have strongly condemned the attack.

SDLP councillor Paul Doherty stated:

"This is a disgraceful act of violence. There is no place for this kind of violence on our streets, and the use of a firearm in this attack is also very concerning. I would urge people to avoid this area while police carry out their investigation and to come forward to police with any information so those behind this shooting can be apprehended and this weapon seized before causing harm to anyone else."

Sinn Féin MLA Danny Baker also condemned the attack, calling it a "reckless act" with no justification.

"This is an extremely busy area in our community, with many local families and children passing through to visit shops, attend sports training and go about their daily lives. Our community does not want this."

People Before Profit councillor Michael Collins expressed shock and anger:

"There is no support for this kind of violence from any section of the community. These kinds of actions destroy families and only serve to drag working-class communities backwards. I wish the man who was the victim of this heinous attack a speedy recovery and unreservedly condemn this senseless act of violence."

Ongoing Investigation

The police investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. No suspects have been identified, and officers continue to work in the area to gather evidence.