POLICE in north Belfast have appealed for community help after a night of anti-social behaviour that included an interface clash where young people were armed with "large batons".
Police responded to reports of trouble at Duncairn Gardens shortly after 9pm on Saturday evening. Officers responding to the incident said although no-one was reported to be hurt during the clash, and no arrests made, a number of youths were said to be carrying weapons described as "large batons".
The incident follows previous clashes in North Belfast at York Street and North Queen Street last month that saw up to 60 young people gather in what police believe are confrontations organised through social media.
Oldpark SDLP Councillor Paul McCusker said: "There has unfortunately been an increase in this type of behaviour, and young people need to be aware of the consequences of their actions and the impact this is having on both sides of the local community."
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, officers were attacked with bricks and bottles by up to 100 youths while investigating vandalism at a play park also in north Belfast.
Officers arrived at the park in Glencairn on Saturday evening after receiving reports of anti-social behaviour and were met with crowds of youths damaging play equipment and a burning bin on the playground's new surface.
Describing the scene on the PSNI's North Belfast Facebook page, a spokesperson said: "We took the usual verbal abuse and the volley of bricks and bottles. Much as the young people got very excited about that, they certainly aren’t the first to try that and it really is a bit pathetic."
Police have previously appealed to the local community about vandalism at the park, and the spokesperson added: "This brings our community into disrepute. It is in stark contrast to the positive work many of the local residents, young people and community/political reps are doing to improve the area. If you see anyone involved in anti-social behaviour, please report to the PSNI or Belfast City Council."
