Police and residents attacked by youths in Derry/Londonderry

By Richard O'Reilly

Police in Deryr/Londonderry came under attack last night while dealing with disorder in the city.

Superintendent Gordon McCalmont said it happened close to the bonfire at the banking in the Lecky Road area.

SI McCalmont said: “People gathered at the bonfire attacked members of the community on the city Walls with bottles and rocks.

"Police who were deployed to prevent further disorder were subsequently attacked by persons who threw petrol bombs and other missiles. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained. This violent behaviour simply damages our communities, and cannot be tolerated."

Superintendent McCalmont continued: “Tonight will see the lighting of the bonfire and I would appeal to those in the community to use their influence to control the situation so that we do not have a repeat of last night’s behaviour.  

"I would like to reassure the community that we will deploy the necessary resources to detect and deter those responsible. Where this is not practicable at the time, we shall seek to gather evidence to bring those responsible before the courts. There will be consequences for those choosing to engage in this type of behaviour."
 
“Local residents do not want this kind of activity on their doorsteps and I would urge those engaged in violence and criminal damage to stay at home.”