Police have described a paramilitary attack on a man in his 30s as “barbaric and horrific”.
Four masked men forced their way into a house in The Crescent area of Ballymoney, Co Antrim at about 7.45pm on Sunday.
He was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries which were not believed to be life-threatening.
A Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) spokesman said: “Whilst these injuries are not life threatening, this was a brutal and horrific attack. It is yet another example of how criminal groups seek to control communities through fear and violence.”
Detectives appeal for information and witnesses following a report of a paramilitary style assault in The Crescent area of Ballymoney yesterday, Sunday, 4 March. Information to 101 quoting reference 1051 04/03/18 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
— PSNI CC&G District (@PSNICCGDistrict) March 5, 2018
Another man and woman, who were also in the house, were forced into the kitchen of the property while the assault was carried out. They were not injured, however they were left very badly shaken.
North Antrim DUP MLA Mervyn Storey condemned the attack.
He said: “Clearly those involved in this horrendous attack were intent on not just inflicting fear, but serious injury.
“Fortunately the police are not investigating a murder, as that could have been the case.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have seen or heard anything, no matter how insignificant they may think it is to contact the police.
“It is imperative that those responsible for this despicable attack are soon apprehended and their reign of terror brought to an end.”
