Police in Belfast faced attacks during another night of chaos, with objects thrown at officers at the Albertbridge and Newtownards Road junctions.
Fires were set, and riot police were deployed. This continued the recent streak of riots and disorder in the city.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has called for additional officers from other parts of the UK and mobilized its existing officers to work longer shifts and rest days.
Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones stated that the extra resources would help manage events and sporadic incidents of disorder.
The additional officers from the UK will receive necessary training and equipment for public order incidents.
Justice Minister Naomi Long condemned the violence in east Belfast as “absolutely shameful” and urged people to stop the destruction in their own area. She posted on social media, calling for peace in the community.
Earlier, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher assured the Muslim community in Northern Ireland that PSNI officers are committed to protecting them. He emphasized that every officer is there to ensure their safety.
In the past few days, several nights of violence have included racially motivated attacks and rioting. Businesses were targeted after an anti-immigration protest at Belfast City Hall.
More disorder occurred on Monday and Tuesday, and a woman’s home in Ballyclare was attacked on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, six people were charged with offenses related to the disorder. The PSNI said the charges were connected to incidents on Rathlin Street and Shankill Road.
Three men, aged 26, 28, and 41, were charged with criminal damage, riotous behavior, incitement to hatred, and possession of an offensive weapon.
They will appear in court on Thursday. Three boys, aged 14 and two aged 16, were charged with riotous behavior after being arrested in Shankill and are due in court on 2 September .
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgewk7r7y4o