Two arrests after man racially abused
4:06pm Saturday 28th June 2008
TWO people have been arrested after a man was racially abused as he walked through the streets.
The victim was followed through the streets of Durham City on Sunday afternoon, pursued by a man and a youth who made monkey noises and spat at him.
The incident happened between 5pm and 5.35pm as the victim, who is of Afro-Caribbean origin, was walking down Silver Street heading to a party at a friend's house.
He was taunted with noises, accompanying gestures and further racial insults and comments as he crossed Framwellgate Bridge and into North Road. At one point, they ran up behind the man and spat on his back.
The victim reported the incident to police and later that evening a 21-year-old man, from Consett, and a youth aged 16, from Meadowfield, were arrested.
Both have been released on police bail until mid-August pending further inquiries.
PC Mel Sutherland, of Durham City Police, said: "This was a very nasty incident which has no place in today's society. The man was subjected to repeated and quite horrendous abuse and I would appeal for anyone who saw or heard what happened to get in touch."
Witnesses are asked to contact PC Sutherland on 0845-6060-365 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.