Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
‘Robbery bid’ on jeweller’s
17 cops hurt as petrol bombs thrown
POLICE have appealed for witnesses after an alleged armed robbery at a jeweller’s yesterday.
Two men wearing face masks allegedly entered the premises on Church Lane, Portadown, Co Armagh, at around 2pm.
Police said one was armed with a knife which he allegedly used to threaten staff members.
Both were described as wearing navy blue tops and one was said to be wearing a grey flat cap.
APPEAL Rally at Belfast International yesterday
A PROTEST was held at Belfast International Airport yesterday calling for Westminster and Stormont to save aviation jobs.
Unite has called sector redundancies an “unprecedented crisis”. MPs present included Paul Girvan, Sammy Wilson and Stephen Farry.
POLICE officers have been injured after being attacked with petrol bombs, masonry and other missiles yesterday.
The PSNI joined contractors in Distillery Street in West Belfast as they attempted to remove bonfire materials from the area.
However, officers came under “sustained attack” from a large group of youths throwing missiles, which included petrol bombs and masonry.
A spokesman said 17 officers were injured during the attack and are currently receiving treatment.
Superintendent Melanie Jones said: “During the operation, officers came under sustained attack from large groups of youths throwing petrol bombs, masonry and other missiles towards police. At this point we can confirm at least 17 officers have sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment.
“Footage from evidence gathering cameras will be reviewed and all efforts will be made to identify those involved in the completely unacceptable violence.
“We will continue to work with the local community, representatives and other partners to address this issue, but it is disappointing that some young people and their guardians are not listening to our repeated warnings.
“People who choose to engage in criminal and anti-social behaviour must understand it is unacceptable and must stop. People have a right to live in peace and to feel safe in their communities.”
Bonfire site in Belfast