13/08/2019

Petrol Bombs Thrown At Police

A large number of petrol bombs have been thrown at police during a third night of disorder in L'Derry.

A total of 24 petrol bombs and six paint bombs were thrown in the streets in the vicinity of the City Walls as trouble continues in the Bogside area.

Between 30 and 40 people were involved in the disorder which lasted from early evening into the night, with youths targeting police with missiles including bricks and bottles. A strong police presence was established in the area, with officers in riot gear on standby.

A small barricade was erected and set alight on Fahan Street, while a laser pen was shone at a PSNI helicopter, endangering both the crew on board and local residents.

Police have collected a significant amount of evidence and said they are confident that arrests will follow.

Superintendent Gordon McCalmont said: "This is the third night that the people of this city have had to put up with unwanted disorder and destruction. No one wants to see these despicable scenes on our streets.

"Some of the those involved in last night's trouble were extremely young teenagers and I have no doubt that this disorder is being orchestrated by much older people and that these youths are being used to attack police and significant symbolic sites around our City Walls.

"I would urge those young people to pull back from this behaviour and I would also ask those with influence within our community to use that influence positively and help dissuade young people from participating in public disorder. It must be made clear to them that they are risking their safety and that of others, as well as running the risk of a criminal conviction which could have a long lasting impact on their future prospects."

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact police on non-emergency line 101. Details can also be passed on in confidence by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.



(JG/CM)

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