Man to appear in court over Belfast disorder

By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

A man is to appear in court charged in connection with violence in south Belfast.

There were two nights of disturbances near the Broadway roundabout this week when police were attacked with missiles.

A 38-year-old man arrested in the Broadway area of south Belfast on Tuesday night has been charged with riot, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and indecent behaviour, PSNI said.

He will appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

Police came under attack with petrol bombs, paint and bottles by a crowd of an estimated 40 young people, described as being in their “young teens”.

A number of roads in the area were closed during the disorder on Tuesday evening.

The Police Federation, which represents ranks-and-file officers, condemned the attacks on police.

Chairman Liam Kelly said: “This behaviour that we have seen over two nights in the Village-Broadway area is wholly destructive and pointless.

“People living in the immediate area of this disorder have had their lives turned upside down with damage caused to properties.

“Thankfully, our officers have escaped injury in these vicious attacks. They have succeeded in holding the line and restoring peace to this area.

“There is no excuse for the violent scenes we have witnessed or the wilful and mindless targeting of officers who are doing their best to protect the entire community.

“This street disorder has to stop. Nothing can be gained by rival groups inflicting such upheaval on families living in this area.

“Our officers will continue to maintain the rule of law and conduct professional policing operations until the gangs engaged in this street violence desist.”