The Peace Bridge in Derry.
Politicians in Derry have strongly condemned an alleged homophobic attack close to the city’s Peace Bridge.
Police received a report shortly before midnight on Saturday night that an assault had occurred in the city centre.
It was reported two men were assaulted shortly after 11:30pm.
These males had made their way onto the Peace Bridge and been assaulted within the vicinity.
One of the males sustained a head injury, while the other male sustained facial and hand injuries.
Police and NIAS attended the incident.
The incident is being investigated as a homophobic hate crime, as police said they are continuing with their enquiries to establish the circumstances around the incident.
Local MP Colum Eastwood has urged anyone with information about the Saturday night assault on two men to come forward to police.
“Late on Saturday night two men making their way to the peace bridge from Ebrington Square were attacked in what police believe was a homophobic assault,” he said.
“No one in Derry should have to worry that they might become the victim of a violent crime just because of who they are – it is disgusting and totally unacceptable.
“On average there’s one crime or incident against people on the basis of their sexual orientation every day in the North. That creates an environment of fear for a whole community that we have to do more to challenge.
“I would urge anyone who was in the area between 11.30pm and midnight on Saturday night and who has any information about what happened to come forward to police as soon as possible.”
Also condemning the incident, Sinn Féin councillor Sandra Duffy branded it as “repulsive”.
Ms Duffy said: “This is a repulsive incident, and I want to extend my solidarity to the two men who sustained injuries and wish them a quick recovery.
“There is no place for in our communities for homophobia and those responsible for this reprehensible behaviour must be brought to justice.
“I echo calls from police for anyone who may be able to assist with the investigation to come forward with information.”
Police have appealed to anyone with information, or relevant footage which could assist enquiries to contact them on the non-emergency number.