Police in Derry/Londonderry responded to reports of a crowd of youths gathered at the interface in the Irish Street area of the city on Friday evening, 1st May.

Superintendent Sinead McIldowney said: “At approximately 9.45pm around 15 young people were in the area with their faces covered carrying a number of flags while a band parade was passing through.

“The youths initially engaged with police in attendance, however, after leaving the area for a short time they returned armed with paint bombs, heavy masonry and petrol bombs.

“A period of disorder ensured as they threw the items at officers – two police vehicles sustained minor damage.

“Thankfully, there were no Injuries reported to our officers, members of the public, or properties.

The crowd eventually dispersed – with police remaining in the area for a time in an effort to locate those involved. Calm was restored at around 1am.”

Superintendent McIldowney continued: “We are continuing to engage with local representatives and the wider community in order to help prevent further instances of this behaviour.

“We would particularly ask parents and guardians to speak to their children so they know where they area, and that they do not become involved in such reckless behaviour that could lead to someone getting hurt.

“Those who do choose to get involved in such behaviour causing potential destruction to local communities are taking a decision to change their futures potentially forever.

“Our enquiries are ongoing today, and there will be consequences to those involved and any further similar behaviour by way of proactive arrests.

“Valuable police resources, that we know should be helping victims of crime had to be diverted to deal with this disorder. It is completely unacceptable.”

Anyone who has information, or who can help identify those responsible, is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1773 01/05/26.

A report can be made online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org