Public order, Mountpottinger, East Belfast
01 Sep 2009
Police fired a number of AEP rounds during disturbances in the Mountpottinger area last night (Monday 31 August). There are no reports of any arrests or injuries at this stage.
Condemning the violence area commander Chief Inspector John McKeag said; “The scenes of wanton violence in east Belfast last night were an absolute disgrace. They were a disgrace to the city. They were a disgrace to Northern Ireland.
Once again our country is caught in the spotlight of reckless public disorder and communal hatred.
Let's be clear where the blame lies here. It lies with the criminal who picked up a stone, or a bottle, or any other missiles and who attacked the police and other citizens going about their business.
As often happens the police were caught between two opposing groups determined to attack each other.
We have launched an investigation into last night's disorder. We will be seeking to gather all the evidence we can to bring those involved to justice”.
Anyone who can help with this investigation has a civic duty to help the police.
