Northern Ireland

Warning issued after petrol bomb thrown at police in Derry

A petrol bomb and pieces of masonry were thrown at police after they were called to disperse a crowd of up to 40 people in Derry’s Waterside area.

No-one was injured in the incident which took place at Tullymore road in Currynierin area around 7.20pm on Monday.

A PSNI spokesman said police dispersed the crowd and also seized a number of items including wooden planks and iron bars.

“As police were in the area, it was reported that a petrol bomb was thrown towards a parked police vehicle but did not strike it. Masonry was thrown at a police vehicle during the incident. Thankfully, there were no reports of any injuries,” he said.

The spokesman said officers attended the scene to help prevent any further disorder.

By seizing the wooden planks and iron bars, they helped quell potential unrest which could have impacted on the community. He said police would continue to work with representatives and “partner agencies” but it was disappointing that some people continued to disregard PSNI warnings.

“Those people who choose to engage in criminal and anti-social behaviour must understand it is unacceptable and must stop. People have a right to live in peace and to feel safe in their communities.

“Parents and guardians have an important obligation to keep young people safe by knowing where they are going and who they are with. Young people must understand the dangers of getting involved in behaviour which could result in injuring themselves, others or ultimately a criminal record,” the spokesman said.

Police intend reviewing CCTV footage to identify those involved in Monday’s incident and, if appropriate, will make arrests, the spokesman said.