Hundreds of people took to the Coalisland canal area on Wednesday to send a message that physical and verbal abuse of anyone in the area was not acceptable.
Several incidents have been reported in the area in recent weeks, including one of a female jogger being punched in the back as she ran along a walking path.
Representatives from the PSNI joined with local community groups at the event to show support for those who had been targeted.
READ MORE: Natalie McNally murder accused 'staged video game broadcast' on night she was killed
Mid Ulster MLA Linda Dillon said she was delighted with the turnout to the event and said the canal walk area should be available for everyone in the community to use.
“It was brilliant to see the community support for this event with a couple of hundred people attending on the night,” the Sinn Féin MLA said.
“The turnout was fantastic and it was great to see some of those people who had been harassed come out and join as well.
“It was a really positive event in a whole lot of ways, with representatives from the PSNI, PCSP and community organisations attending.
The canal walk area of the Co Tyrone town recently received a major refurbishment as part of a recent Public Realm Scheme investment.
“We’re so lucky to have this area, and we need to ensure everyone feels that they can come and use this space safely,” Dillon added.
“The strength of feeling in this area about this issue is clear for all to see.
“We have a great community here, but like any community there will always be a small number who will be up to no good. We want to appeal to those people to come and use these facilities properly as they are for everyone here.”
Since this week's event, a formal report has been made to the police concerning a physical assault in the area, and they say patrols have been increased in recent weeks.
"Police have stepped up patrols in the Coalisland area following a reported assault on a female in The Line area," a PSNI spokesperson said.
"The woman was jogging in the canal walkway area when the assault occurred. A boy followed her and punched her to her lower back then other boys in his company proceeded to throw ice in her direction.
"The woman left the area on foot and a report was later made to police."
Inspector Alison Johnstone from the local Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We are very aware of concerns surrounding this and, rest assured, we take reports of this nature incredibly seriously and will pursue those who seek to harass or harm, using every power available to us."
READ NEXT:
Tommy Tiernan show: Co Tyrone woman praised for 'inspirational' appearance
Renewed calls to end violence against women at Lurgan rally for Natalie McNally
The Chase: Co Tyrone teacher and GAA referee set to take on ITV gameshow
PSNI budget cuts will mean ability to tackle crime "reduced and slowed", chief says
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here.
