FIGHTING between two groups of young people in the south Belfast area on Monday night is understood to have been sectarian in nature.
The violence flared just before 8.45pm when youngsters threw golf balls and other items at each other in the lower Ormeau area.
A number of parked cars were also damaged.
The incident is the latest in recent nights, with reports of groups of young people engaging in fights, anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in the Lower Ormeau, Markets and Donegall Pass areas.
Police said they suspect some of the incidents have been arranged using social media, and have urged parents and guardians to address this issue.
Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said, “We continue to have additional resources dedicated to the area to prevent and respond to any incidents, but we really need parents and young people to take responsibility for their actions.
"...We have consistently warned young people about their behaviour. Getting involved in anti-social and criminal behaviour at best can result in a criminal record which can affect travel, education and employment opportunities in the future. At worst, someone could be seriously injured or killed.
“Time and time again we have asked parents and guardians to ensure they know where their young people are, what they are doing and who they are with."
He added: "We will continue to work with local representatives and community workers to address this issue, but the local community deserves better. Residents of south Belfast should not be subjected to these incidents of criminal and anti-social behaviour."
Anyone with information should phone police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
