A 14-year-old boy has been allegedly ‘jumped’ by a group of teens at Cairns Central shopping centre

A 14-year-old boy has been left with a black eye and afraid to go to school after he was “jumped” by a group of teens at a busy shopping centre in Cairns.

A shocking act of violence at a Far North shopping centre has left a 14-year-old boy with a black eye and afraid to go back to school.

The 14-year-old boy was violently “jumped” at Cairns Central shopping centre on Saturday, February 1, by an older group of kids in an unprovoked attack.

The group also filmed the alleged assault later sharing it on social media.

Now the victim’s family are calling for those responsible to be held accountable.

The main entrance to Cairns Central shopping centre, at the intersection of McLeod Street and Shields Street in the Cairns CBD. Picture: Brendan Radke

The video, which the family described as “distressing to watch,” shows the teenager trapped with no escape as an older boy confronts him.

The younger boy attempts to shield himself as the older teen punches him in the stomach, followed by two more brutal strikes to the face.

“This is a senseless act, an older kid jumped my nephew,” said the boy’s aunt, who has requested anonymity while the investigation is under way.

“He has a swollen cheek and a black eye, honestly I couldn’t watch the whole thing, it was so upsetting,” she said.

The 14-year-old cornered by a group of boys at Cairns Central on Saturday. February 1. Picture: Supplied.

Surrounded by friends, who filmed the assault, the victim’s family said the situation was totally senseless.

“It’s just heartbreaking to watch him go through this, especially when you see the kids behind the camera encouraging the attack,” the woman said.

The boy did not know the attackers personally, having only seen them in passing through football.

A Queensland Police spokesman said there was an active investigating on-going to an assault at the McLeod Street shopping centre.

“Initial information indicates at 5.30pm, a 14-year-old boy was approached by a group of teenagers not known to him,” she said.

“The boy was assaulted and sustained minor injuries, before the group fled on foot.”

Despite the distressing event, the family and the 14-year-old hope by sharing their story this will encourage community awareness.

Cairns Central Police Beat located on the Ground Floor. Picture Emily Barker.

The teenager, who was hesitant at first about the video being posted on Facebook, later found solace in the overwhelming support he received from the public.

“He’s doing OK,” his aunty said.

“The response from the video, I think has helped him realise people are behind him, and that made him feel better.

“He was outnumbered and could’ve easily lashed out, but he knew that would only escalate things.

“He’s been offered help in self-defence and he’s eager to do it.”

DF Gym owner and Muay Thai instructor Patrick Doherty sad bullying is a serious issue, but he truly believes martial arts can be a huge part of the solution. Picture: Brendan Radke

DF GYM owner Patrick Doughey is a long-time advocate for youth martial arts programs.

He also runs a Muay Thai program for the Cairns Safer Streets Project, an initiative by Cairns Police and the Queensland Government.

“I’ve seen first-hand how martial arts can change kids’ lives,” he said.

With more than 16 years experience in Muay Thai, he believes martial arts can play a crucial role in building confidence and resilience in kids, particularly those who are bullied.

DF Gym had collaborated with Trinity Bay State High School to begin an after school Muay Thai program for students of diverse backgrounds. Patrick Doherty (centre) with Trinity Bay students Jane Pasccine, Tchishibanji Baguma, Juma Sadiki, Fazili Divinresse and Gloire Zagabe after a challenging fitness class. Picture: Brendan Radke

“Bullying has always been a reality, but social media has only amplified it. These incidents are more visible now, and that can be a good thing — because it brings attention to the problem,” Mr Doughey said.

He has offered to train the victim to help rebuild his confidence.

“Bullies tend to target those who seem vulnerable … but if they learn to stand their ground and de-escalate situations before things get physical, and that’s a win,” he said.

“I’d love to help this kid. Teach him skills that’ll not only help him in situations like this but also surround him with role models who don’t tolerate this kind of behaviour.”

Investigations are continuing, anyone with information is urged to contact Queensland Police Service.

QPS said it conducts regular high-visibility patrols of the shopping centre to disrupt and deter anti-social behaviour and offending.

Originally published as A 14-year-old boy has been allegedly ‘jumped’ by a group of teens at Cairns Central shopping centre