Northern Irish police have condemned [1] the “disgusting” rioting by pro-Irish unity youths in Londonderry, which resulted in injuries to ten officers overnight.
The violent outbreak is the latest in a series of disturbances that have plagued the region.
Petrol bombs being thrown at the PSNI in Derry.
pic.twitter.com/u43z4bQ5XD [2]— Toby 🇮🇪 (@ThoughtsToby) August 10, 2024 [3]
The unrest in Londonderry, also known as Derry, comes after a week of nightly disturbances in Belfast and other locations.
These recent events mirror the unrest seen in English towns and cities following the Southport knife attack. However, while the riots in England have largely subsided, Northern Ireland has seen continued unrest.
🚨 Police attacked with petrol bombs in Londonderry, Northern Ireland
– 10+ police officers injured pic.twitter.com/PNivghargN [4]
— Kreately.in (@KreatelyMedia) August 11, 2024 [5]
Police have accused pro-UK loyalist paramilitary groups of fueling the violence in Northern Ireland.
pic.twitter.com/RWcIgW0Y6y [6]
— Nathan Edgar (@nathanedgaar) August 11, 2024 [7]
In Londonderry, rioters threw petrol bombs, fireworks, and missiles, injuring ten officers. “The scenes we witnessed were disgusting,” said Derry City and Strabane Superintendent William Calderwood. “To see our officers injured as a result of this violence is appalling,” he added. One arrest has been made in connection with the rioting.
The clashes involved up to 50 youths and occurred after a pro-UK loyalist march through the city.
Statement [1] from the Police Service of Northern Ireland:
“Police dealt with several hours of disorder in Nailors Row in Derry/Londonderry last night, Saturday 10th August.
Fireworks, petrol bombs and other missiles were used to attack police. A number of tactics were deployed in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, including use of the Public Order Dog Unit.
As a result of the disorder 10 officers sustained injuries.
Derry City & Strabane Superintendent William Calderwood said: “The scenes we witnessed were disgusting, and I want to commend our officers for their professionalism. These were difficult conditions for officers from across numerous departments.
“To see our officers injured as a result of this violence is appalling. It is completely unacceptable.”
Superintendent Calderwood continued: “To date one arrest has been made, but we can reassure you a robust investigation is underway to bring all those responsible for this violence to justice.
“I want to make it clear this violence involved individuals who were intent on attacking police, and who exploited an increased police presence in the city yesterday to do just that.”
Superintendent Calderwood added: “We know from the work our officers do on a daily basis that last night’s disgraceful and senseless violence will have provoked anger in the local community and wider area. The public can be reassured you will see our officers on duty today, continuing to work with communities, and working to keep people safe.””