Teenager bailed over laser attack

The youth allegedly targeted the police helicopter

A 17-year-old arrested in west Belfast for allegedly shining a laser at the pilot of the police helicopter has been released on bail, police have said.

The teenager was arrested in the Whiterock Road area on Thursday night.

Police said that the young man had been released pending further inquiries into the incident

"Not only is it an offence under the Air Navigation Order to endanger aircraft but it is highly irresponsible and dangerous," police said.

"Lasers can cause temporary blindness, which, where pilots are concerned, can spell catastrophe."