Arrest Made After Second Night of Disorder in South Belfast
Belfast, Northern Ireland – A 38-year-old man has been arrested following a second night of unrest in the Broadway area of south Belfast, where police officers faced attacks from a group of young people.
During the incident, which occurred on Tuesday evening, police were targeted with petrol bombs, paint, and bottles by a crowd estimated to consist of around 40 youths, mostly in their early teens. Several roads in the area were closed due to the disorder.
Chief Superintendent Jeremy Lindsay, the PSNI’s district commander for Belfast, confirmed that no injuries were reported. He emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "This disorder, which lasted into the early hours of this morning, is completely unacceptable. We are thankful that no police officers or members of the public were injured."
Superintendent Lindsay urged the young people involved, along with their parents or guardians, to consider the potential consequences of such behavior: "The implications for your future could be immense."
In response to the unrest, local police officers will continue to patrol the area, and efforts will be made to work with partner agencies, local representatives, and the community to prevent further incidents. Lindsay encouraged the public to report any antisocial behavior, noting, "The more we know, the more we can do to support people and take positive action. Please call us on 101 or 999 in an emergency."
Members of the public and motorists in the area on Wednesday morning were advised to exercise caution due to rubble on the streets from the previous night's disorder.