Police in south Belfast have made an arrest in relation to disorder which took place before the Irish Cup Semi-Final at The National Stadium, Windsor Park on Friday evening, 3rd April.

Officers dealt with public disorder before the football match, which saw a child struck by a bottle and at least nine officers injured during the course of the policing operation, as fireworks, flares and bottles were thrown.

South Belfast District Commander, Superintendent Finola Dornan said: “While the majority of football fans attending Friday evening’s match behaved in a peaceful manner, a number of people chose to engage disorderly behaviour and provocative conduct.

“During an approved public procession ahead of the match, which involved approximately 250 people, our officers witnessed provocative conduct and the heavy use of pyrotechnics and fireworks – despite various warnings being issued against this. There were a number of potential breaches of the Parades Commission Determinations in relation to the procession, which will now be investigated.

“A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour, doing a provocative act, possession of fireworks/flares at a regulated match, indecent behaviour and attempted criminal damage. He remains in police custody at this time.

“Two other people were also reported for offences including the use of flares.

“The vast majority of fans were there to enjoy the match, however, there was completely unacceptable behaviour from a proportion of fans both before and after the match, at what should have been an enjoyable and safe event for all attending.

“Police will not tolerate disorder or criminal behaviour of any kind and, as always, we will continue to work with football clubs to address any inappropriate behaviour linked to people attending matches and ensure that the local community is kept safe.

“We will therefore be conducting a thorough evidence-gathering operation in the wake of last night’s occurrences.”