Ombudsman defends PSNI use of plastic bullets

The North’s Police Ombudsman has ruled that the PSNI was right to fire nearly 30 plastic bullets during rioting in the Short Strand area of east Belfast in August 2002.

The so-called "baton rounds" were fired during two nights of street clashes between republican and loyalist youths in the Catholic enclave.

In her report into the matter, Ombudsman Nuala O’Loan said the use of plastic bullets helped restore order in the area.

She also insisted that the PSNI had exercised restraint and was justified in opening fire. Ms O’Loan said all the evidence suggested that the police acted "entirely within the relevant guidelines".