The PSNI have been given ‘special powers’ ahead of potential disorder in Belfast city centre.
Several businesses have closed early as a precaution following violent scenes at an anti-immigration protest last Saturday with further anti-immigration protests and counter demonstrations planned this evening. This afternoon it was confirmed that from today police officers will be given additional powers to stop and search or require the removal of face coverings.
More: Live updates as protests to take place in Belfast
It follows a fifth night of violence and disorder in the city.
Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones told reporters: “Anyone contemplating getting involved needs to understand the consequences of their actions. We will use all lawful means and tactics at our disposal to gather evidence and arrest people involved in criminality.
“From today our officers may have additional powers to stop and search or require the removal of face coverings.
“Our officers will have all the appropriate powers and tactics to tackle the disorder and criminal behaviour, the likes we have seen in the past week.”
The Police Can Stop and Search You For Reasons Including; If there has been serious violence or disorder in the area; If the police are looking for a suspect who fits your description; If the police have reasonable grounds to suspect you’re carrying drugs, a weapon or stolen property; In countering terrorism.
Since violence flared last weekend 23 arrests have been made and 15 people have been charged.
ACC Jones added that the PSNI will be making further arrests in the coming hours and days.
“We are also investigating who is organising and orchestrating this disorder and we will bring those people to justice,” she said.
“The scenes we have seen across Belfast over the last week have been a disgrace. They have no place in our communities.
“Those who are intent on causing disorder or committing offences will be brought to justice.”