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Police stoned and hotel stormed by far-right protesters in Rotherham

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Police stoned and hotel stormed by far-right protesters in Rotherham

Northern Ireland police report ‘criminal damage, assault and arson’ after riot

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has condemned the scenes of violence and disorder that took place on the streets of Belfast on Saturday.

Approximately 600 people took part in a protest in front of City Hall on Saturday morning.

In a statement released today, police said: “Following a period of delay and attempts to march to the Belfast Islamic Centre, which were prevented by police, some of the protesters dispersed into the areas of Botanic Avenue, University Street, Lower Ormeau, Holyland and Donegall Road, where sporadic violence developed over a period of time.

“Throughout the evening, further disorder was reported in the Sandy Row area, where a commercial premises was also set on fire.”

A vehicle is set on fire in Belfast following an anti-Islam protest outside Belfast City Hall (Photo: David Young/PA Wire)

Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck said: “As a result of yesterday’s disorder, we are today, Sunday 4 August, dealing with a number of reports of criminal damage, assaults and arson, as well as other related offences.

“So far we have made four arrests for a range of offences including disorderly behaviour, assaulting police, taking part in an unannounced procession, disorderly behaviour and possession of unlicensed fireworks.

“There were four reports of assault made to police involving members of the public. Serious injuries were thankfully not reported.

“Three officers also suffered injuries as a result of this disorder, two officers remained on duty and one officer was relieved of duty after suffering concussion.

“Such attacks on police officers are completely unacceptable and I would like to place on record my gratitude for the professional actions of the police officers in dealing with yesterday’s events.

“To date, we have received 13 reports of criminal damage but expect to receive more as the days go by. We continue to engage with communities across Belfast on this.”

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