Thousands may face charges over flag row

Thousands more people could face police action for criminal behaviour linked to the union flag protests in Northern Ireland, a senior detective has warned.

Police have pledged to hunt down those responsible as it emerged commanders are in discussions with the body that adjudicates on contentious parades in the region, to establish if it can make a ruling on a mass flag demonstration that has been taking place in Belfast on recent Saturdays.

If the Parades Commission considers the loyalist event falls within its remit, it could issue a determination that would limit its route.