A mum and her disabled teenage son have been left badly shaken after they were attacked in North Belfast.
Police are investigating reports of an assault in the Carrick Hill area which took place at around 3.30pm on Thursday, January 13.
A friend of the woman told Belfast Live that she was walking with her disabled son with special needs, when they were approached by a hooded man with a scarf over his face.
He then punched the woman and attempted to take her backpack, but backed off after she shouted at him.
The man then ran away "laughing" about what he had done.
A PSNI spokesperson said: "Police are investigating a report of an assault in the Carrick Hill area of north Belfast yesterday (Thursday 13th January).
"It was reported at around 3.30pm that woman in her 40s had been punched on her leg, by a man wearing a scarf.
"Enquiries are ongoing and police would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to the incident to contact 101 quoting reference number 1014 of 13/01/22.
"A report can be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org."
SDLP Deputy Leader Nichola Mallon has condemned the "disgraceful" attack and said that people should be able to go about their daily business without being subjected to attacks of this nature.
The North Belfast MLA said: “I was disgusted to learn of this attack on a mother and son who were out walking in Belfast on Thursday. The focus in recent days has rightly been on how women do not feel safe when out walking, even during the day time, and this is another example of the type of disgraceful behaviour women have to contend with.
“Reports indicate the women and her disabled son were badly shaken after the incident, I am not surprised. People should be able to go about their day without being subjected to attacks of this nature and it’s highly concerning that we continue to see incidents like this in our community. My thoughts are with the victim and her son and I hope they are able to put this behind them soon.
“I would urge anyone who witnessed or has any information about this attack to come forward to police. We need to do everything we can to apprehend the person responsible and ensure no one else is subjected to a similar attack.”
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