Shots fired as fresh trouble flares

Shots were fired tonight as new trouble flared at sectarian interfaces in Belfast.

Gunfire was reported in the Short Strand district, a Catholic enclave in the east of the city were a row of bungalows belonging to Catholic pensioners was set on fire in a petrol bomb attack mounted from across the peaceline.

There were no reports of any injuries following the shooting which David Ervine of the loyalist Progressive Unionist Party claimed was directed by the IRA at Protestant community workers.

He said: ‘‘I think it was a fairly murderous attack.’’

Earlier, in the north of the city a number of police officers were hurt during clashes between nationalists and loyalists.

The violence erupted in Duncairn Gardens, Limestone Road, Hallidays Road and Limestone Road, scene of sectarian hostilities in the past.

Petrol bombs and acid bombs as well as stones, bottles and bricks were hurled by rival factions.

Meanwhile a 22-year-old man was due to appear before Belfast magistrates tomorrow charged with riotous behaviour and possession of a petrol bomb in the east of the city.