Appeals for calm after night of disorder in south Belfast

Young people involved in rioting in south Belfast have been urged not to ruin their futures after petrol and paint bombs caused extensive damage on Monday night.

The PSNI said that vehicles belonging to the police and public were damaged in the night of disorder in the Broadway Roundabout area.

Chief Superintendent Jeremy Lindsay, District Commander for Belfast, said: “Thankfully, no injuries to police officers or the public were reported. However, this was a particularly protracted period of public disorder lasting into the early hours of today.

“Petrol and paint bombs were thrown at officers and vehicles by groups of up to 50 young people.

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“The windscreens of three cars were shattered and splattered with paint with some damage also caused to our police vehicles.”

He added: “Local officers will continue to patrol the area tonight to prevent anti-social or disorderly behaviour and detect those involved.

“We will also continue to work alongside our partner agencies, local representatives and the community.”

Urging the young people involved and their parents to seriously consider the impact of their actions on the local community and their own futures, he said: “These actions have serious consequences. My message is simple, walk away and don’t get involved in any trouble.

“I want to thank local community representatives who worked with us to restore calm and minimise the impact on the local community.”

Officers will continue to provide “a visible policing presence” in the area, with residents urged to report any incidents of anti-social behaviour in the community.

Last week, the Village area had also witnessed sectarian signs branding all Catholics as “targets” on a large bonfire.

Sectarian signs branding all Catholics as “targets” as well as other intimidatory slogans appeared on a pyre, which was close to an interface with the Lower Falls.

Alliance south Belfast MLA Kate Nicholl said she was “disgusted” by Monday night’s disturbances.

“For the second time in a week, we have seen police officers attacked, this time with petrol bombs in south Belfast,” she said.

“I am disgusted, disappointed and angry at this. What possesses people to go out and carry out such attacks on those who are there to protect us?

“My thoughts are with all the officers who were attacked in this horrendous incident and I am thankful none were injured.

“Those involved have done nothing but bring misery and disruption to residents, workers and anyone else affected. These sorts of incidents are not wanted by the vast majority of people here.

“If anyone has any information on those involved in this, I urge them to take it to police immediately.”