Police officers injured during trouble in Londonderry

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5y3w69vpgko

Ten police officers have been injured and one person arrested during disorder in Londonderry, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has said.

Petrol bombs, fireworks and stones were thrown by nationalist youths at police lines during trouble in Nailors Row on Saturday evening.

It followed a major police operation in the city surrounding the annual Apprentice Boys Relief of Derry parade, which passed off without incident.

The PSNI said it liaised with community representatives to prevent further escalation.
Media caption,

Police were attacked by nationalist youths throwing petrol bombs and fireworks

A statement said the trouble presented "a serious risk to the safety of residents in the area" and police asked parents and guardians to take their children home.

BBC News NI's Dean McLaughlin, reporting from the area, said the police helicopter monitored the situation and a public announcement was made asking the crowd to disperse.

He added that about 10 PSNI Land Rovers and police dogs were at the scene, while a small fire was started on Nailors Row.

Up to 50 young people were involved.

Some residents on Bishop Street had to leave their homes.

PSNI Derry City and Strabane Superintendent William Calderwood described the scenes as "disgusting".

"To see our officers injured as a result of this violence is appalling. It is completely unacceptable," he said.
Police lines in Londonderry
Image caption,

Officers maintained a heavy presence in the area on Saturday evening
'Futile actions must stop'

The leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) and MP for Foyle, Colum Eastwood, also described the disorder as disgusting.

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said that "putting children in this position is nothing short of child abuse".

"Derry, resolutely, opposes this senseless violence."

Sinn Féin councillor Sandra Duffy called the attacks on police a "disgrace" and appealed for those involved to stop.

"I am appealing for calm at this time, and I would urge other young people not to get caught up in this activity as it could have a negative impact on their future," she said.

"These futile actions are wrong and they are not representative of this city.

"They are in stark contrast to the hugely positive work and positive community events taking place across the Bogside this week.”