Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
CALLS FOR CALM AFTER DERRY DISORDER GROWS
Thugs attack PSNI officers with bricks & petrol bombs
POLICE officers have come under attack from masonry and petrol bombs in a fourth night of disorder.
The PSNI in Derry said shortly after 9pm on Thursday, it was reported youths with petrol bombs and masonry had gathered in the Rossdowney Road and Lincoln Court area of the city.
They placed pallets on the road and set them alight.
The PSNI said officers responded and came under sustained assault.
During the disorder, a digger parked in the area was set alight and, when colleagues from the Fire Service responded, they also came under attack.
Derry City and Strabane District Commander, Chief Supt Darrin Jones, said: “It is extremely disappointing that for four consecutive nights we have witnessed scenes of anti-social and criminal behaviour in the Waterside.
“These reckless attacks are not wanted by anyone and do nothing but cause harm and damage to the local community who we know just want to live in peace.
“I will again stress young people engaging in this type of criminal behaviour are risking not only their own safety, but they also face the possibility of a criminal conviction which can have life changing consequences.
“We are appreciative of the efforts of those in helping to de-escalate the disorder this week.”
DUP Foyle MLA Gary Middleton called for those carrying out the attacks to desist at once.
He tweeted: “There is no place for this violence in our society. I urge those involved to stop immediately.”
Sinn Fein’s Martina Anderson reiterated calls for an end to the ongoing disturbances and violence in and around Tullyally and other areas of the city.
She said: “Violence and anti-social behaviour which has taken place over three nights in Tullyally and the Lincoln Courts area must stop now.”