LAST UPDATE | 1 Apr

THE PSNI HAS launched an investigation into the use of petrol bombs at an unnotified Easter Monday parade in the Creggan area of Derry.

A local person’s van was also set alight “for no reason”, police say. The fire occurred next to a community hall and has since been extinguished.

The PSNI said it is now reviewing footage of the scenes as part of an investigation into the conduct of participants.

Police had issued several warnings from a drone above the procession “to make participants aware they would be taking part in an un-notified parade on Central Drive”.

“Despite several warnings, participants proceeded along Central Drive and into the City Cemetery,” Commander Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney said.

Prior to the parade, a number of young people were seen making petrol bombs, which police believe “would have been used to attack police had the opportunity arose”.

Kearney described the use of petrol bombs, particularly by young people, as “incredibly sad and really disheartening”.

Using young people in this way, risking their safety and encouraging them to engage in criminality is reprehensible.

A number of petrol bombs were thrown during the event, but those involved have now dispersed, according to the PSNI.

Police have launched an investigation into the parade and the incidents which Kearney say “serve only to damage the local community”.

“Footage obtained from our evidence gathering operation today will be reviewed as part of an investigation into a breach of the Public Processions Act and offences Under the Terrorism Act 2000.”

Earlier today a warning was issued to the public to avoid the Creggan area.

‘Dragging us back’

In a statement SDLP Leader and Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said: “This is the last thing that our community wants or needs.

“The kids being whipped up into throwing petrol bombs at journalists and the police are putting their own lives and futures at risk as well as the safety of others.”

Those involved, he said, “only want to drag us back”.

“They have nothing to offer the people of this city and they need to understand that we all want a better future. The people of Derry want to live in peace with their neighbours.

“We won’t have that peace threatened by anyone, let alone cowards that send kids out to throw petrol bombs.”