WATER CANNON HAVE been deployed in Belfast as violence between “rival factions” intensified on the Lower Newtownards Road.
According to the PSNI, missiles were thrown between the two groups and police lines were put in place.
Officers were subsequently attacked with heavy masonry. The area is closed to traffic as police continue to deal with the public disorder.
Earlier, resources were sent into Short Strand to disperse a group that had gathered.
Police in Northern Ireland continue to deal with the fallout from a city council decision to end the year-round flying of the British flag over its headquarters.
Donegall Square has now reopened after earlier protests ahead of a Belfast City Council meeting – the first time since last month’s vote on the Union flag motion. About 1,000 people held a peaceful demonstration as police had created a ‘sterile area’ around the building.
Last night marked the fourth consecutive evening of related violence and rioting. According to RTÉ, 62 police officers have been injured and 96 people arrested.
County Grand Chaplain of the Orange Order, Reverend Mervyn Gibson told News at One that he believed many youths were taking part in “recreational rioting”, adding that there was no paramilitary factor in the riots.
However, this opinion was contradicted by PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott who believes senior members in the UVF are involved, although acting only as individuals.
The Union flag is due to be raised above City Hall on Wednesday to mark the birthday of the Duchess of Cambridge. It will be the first of the designated days since the restrictions were put in place.
-Additional reporting by AFP
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say