Children as young as seven involved in Derry riots which has been condemned as ‘child abuse’ and ‘exploitation’

CHILDREN as young as seven and eight are believed to have been involved in riots in Derry on Saturday during which 10 police officers were hurt.

The involvement of young people in the disorder has been condemned as “child abuse” and “exploitation”.

Footage of children and young people from a nationalist background throwing petrol bombs at police lines in Nailors Row in the city has been circulated on social media.

Some residents had to leave their homes while police officers were also reportedly attacked with fireworks and stones.

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The attacks came after Saturday’s annual Apprentice Boys Relief of Derry Parade, which reportedly passed without incident.

SDLP councillor John Boyle said he understood children as young as seven and eight were involved.

“It’s absolutely shocking to see children of that age being exploited, being used. It’s clearly a very orchestrated effort, and there have to be adults behind that.

“A seven-year-old child doesn’t do that, unless an adult encourages the child to do that.”

Mr Boyle added that “the people who encourage those children to put themselves in harm’s way are wrong and they should be called out”.

Justice Minister, Naomi Long condemned the “disgraceful, dangerous and senseless” attacks on police.

“The police are there to serve the whole community and keep people safe,” she said.

“It is completely reprehensible that they are facing such attacks as they carry out their duties.

“There is absolutely no place in our community for such disorder and those responsible will be pursued and held accountable in our courts,” she said.

“It is particularly concerning that, yet again, children and young people are being exploited and abused by being drawn into attacks and rioting, risking their safety and their futures.

“I would urge all involved, including those young people who are being manipulated, to seriously consider the impact of their actions on themselves and their community and walk away from any further disorder.”

Mrs Long also commended the PSNI for their efforts restore order and wished injured officers a “speedy recovery”.

In a post on social media platform X, Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said: “This is disgusting. And putting children in this position is nothing short of child abuse. Derry, resolutely, opposes this senseless violence.”

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland (PFNI) urged parents to ensure their “children are not being caught up in violent street unrest”.

PFNI chair Liam Kelly said: “Children should not be taking part in street disturbances. Their parents have a responsibility to keep them safe and away from violent disorder.”

He added that the events of Saturday amounted to “parental abdication”, which he described as “appalling”.

“I appeal to parents to not let their children get caught up in this mindless violence. They have to realise the consequences when they are apprehended and convicted in the courts.”