Northern Ireland

PSNI appeal to identify five more people over week of rioting and disorder

More than 30 people have been arrested in Northern Ireland since rioting broke out on August 3

Images of five people have been released as part of the PSNI's investigation into rioting and disorder since August 3.
Images of five people have been released as part of the PSNI's investigation into rioting and disorder since August 3.
By Allan Preston

POLICE have asked the public with help in identifying a further five individuals after a week of rioting and disorder in Belfast.

Releasing the images, a PSNI spokesperson said on Sunday they were individuals “we would like to speak to” in connection to an ongoing investigation over a number of incidents since August 3.

It followed a strongly worded statement from the Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, who said he would use every tool at his disposal to pursue arrests and convictions.

On Sunday, the total number of arrests connected to the ongoing investigation had risen to 34.

Over the weekend, ten officers were injured during rioting in Derry while a mosque in Newtownards was targeted with sinister graffiti and a failed petrol bomb attack. Police say that some 20 officers have so far been injured since the riots started.

“We will relentlessly pursue those who carry out these senseless acts of violence,” Mr Boutcher said.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have the policing that we do in Northern Ireland but we cannot continue to take that policing for granted.”

“These officers have my absolute respect and support. They are outstanding. That support needs to be society wide. It is not acceptable to assault or attack police officers. I will be seeking the maximum sentences against those convicted of such attacks. We will not simply stand here and accept this.”

He added: “I am determined to pursue those involved in the violence and those inciting and encouraging it with every piece of legislation, every resource and every tactic available to me.”