Police Vehicles And Cars Damaged During Disorder In South Belfast

Police vehicles and cars belonging to members of the public have been damaged following disorder in south Belfast on Monday night, 15 July.

No police officers were injured during the incident in the Broadway Roundabout area.

Chief Superintendent Jeremy Lindsay, District Commander for Belfast, said: "Petrol and paint bombs were thrown at officers and vehicles by groups of up to 50 young people. The windscreens of three cars were shattered and splattered with paint with some damage also caused to our police vehicles.

"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.

"I would urge the young people who have been involved and their parents or guardians to seriously consider the impact of their actions on the local community, but also on their own futures. 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 and I would encourage you to report any and all incidents of anti-social behaviour in your community. The more we know, the more we can do to support people and take positive action. You can contact on 101 or 999 in an emergency."

Alliance South Belfast MLA, Kate Nicholl, has shared her outrage over the attack on police officers.

In a statement Ms Nicholl said: "For the second time in a week, we have seen police officers attacked, this time with petrol bombs in South Belfast.

"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."