PSNI hits out at riot mobs

Police chiefs today hit out at the mob behind a new wave of rioting on the streets of Belfast.

Officers were pelted by 15 petrol bombs, paint bombs and other missiles as they tried to deal with disturbances in the north of the city.

Trouble flared on Cambria Street and the Crumlin Road last night, just 24 hours after 40 police men and woman were injured in rioting blamed on loyalist paramilitaries.

In the latest burst of violence, youths began throwing stones at passing cars.

But when a 19-year-old man was arrested for public order offences, police said the crowd turned on them.

Superintendent Gary White said: “Police worked hard all evening with community representatives to try to resolve the situation and restore order.

“However, it’s clear that a small number of youths were intent on provoking violence and attacking the police. This type of behaviour is unacceptable. Both police and the local community want to see an end to these type of disturbances and we will continue to work to achieve that end.”

No injuries were reported, and the man arrested is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates Court today on rioting charges.