Political leaders condemn violence and call for calm after Belfast riot

Stormont's First Minister has appealed to young people not to get "drawn into disorder'' over the Easter weekend.

Arlene Foster said violence "will not make things better''.

15 police officers were injured on Friday evening after being targeted in Sandy Row by a crowd of mostly young people throwing bottles, bricks and fireworks.

The DUP leader said: "I know that many of our young people are hugely frustrated by the events of this last week but causing injury to police officers will not make things better.

"And I send my strong support to all of the rank and file police officers that are on duty over this Easter weekend.

"I appeal to our young people not to get drawn into disorder which will lead to them having criminal convictions and blighting their own lives.

"I also ask parents to play their part and be proactive in protecting their young adults.''

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said: said: "Violence is never the answer. There is no place for it in society. It is unwanted, unwarranted and I fully support the PSNI appeal for calm.''

Belfast District Commander Chief Superintendent Simon Walls said: “Police were in attendance in Sandy Row last evening, (Friday, 2 April) when a small local protest quickly developed into an attack on police officers.

“A total of fifteen officers were injured after being subjected to a sustained attack by rioters who threw a number of objects at police, including heavy masonry, metal rods, fireworks and manhole covers. Their injuries include burns, head and leg injuries. As a result we now have four officers who cannot report for duty as a result of their injuries.”

Chief Superintendent Walls continued: “The majority of those involved in the disorder last night were young people. In fact two of the eight people arrested were two young boys aged 13 and 14. By engaging in this type of behaviour they are not only risking their safety, they are also risking their futures.

Chief Superintendent Walls concluded: “I understand there are significant tensions and unease in some communities. My job is to keep people safe and I would ask that anyone who has any influence in communities – whether parents, guardians, community or elected representatives – please, use that influence to ensure young people are kept safe and away from harm.

“Local communities deserve to live in safe and peaceful areas, free from rioting and violence.”