A man has sustained a "deep laceration" to his knee in a "vicious" machete attack in North Belfast.
Police are investigating reports of criminal damage and assault which reportedly took place on the city's Forthriver Road area just after 2.45am on Sunday.
The living room windows of a house were allegedly smashed and on investigation a woman says she encountered several people with their faces covered and armed with weapons including a machete and baseball bat.
A man is understood to have been injured when he left the home and was followed by the group.
Detective Sergeant Corrigan said: "A report was received, just after 2.45am, that the living room windows of a house had been smashed.
"When the female occupant stepped outside, she encountered several individuals with their faces covered. They were armed with weapons, including a baseball bat and machete.
"A male occupant left the house and was followed by the same suspects who chased him along the Forthriver Link. The victim was subsequently struck on the knee with the machete, and has sustained a deep laceration.
"This was a vicious attack. And while a man has been left wounded, the consequences, worryingly, could have been even more devastating.
"I am appealing to anyone with information, or who witnessed any suspicious activity in the Forthriver area in the early hours of Sunday to get in touch. Please contact us on 101 quoting reference number 467 of 31/05/20."
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
