Police believe young people were ‘used and exploited’ in orchestrated Londonderry disorder

Police believe disorder involving up to 50 masked people in Londonderry was orchestrated, with young people allegedly “used and exploited” by adults during the violence.

Petrol bombs were thrown at officers in the Waterside area on Monday evening, 7 September, after reports that some members of the group were carrying weapons.

No police officers were injured.

Masked group reported near playing fields

Police received reports from around 7.30pm that between 40 and 50 masked individuals were heading towards playing fields at Knockwellan Park.

The group was described as including both older and younger people, with reports that some were armed.

Those present dispersed in different directions when officers arrived but remained in the wider area.

Police continued engaging with community representatives as they worked to establish what was happening and defuse the situation.

Petrol bombs thrown at officers

Petrol bombs were subsequently thrown at police by some of those present.

Wheelie bins and other items were also used to block the road at the junction of Trench Road and Strabane Old Road.

Calm had been restored by around 10.30pm, with no further incidents reported. Police remained in the area carrying out high-visibility patrols.

Derry City and Strabane Superintendent Sinead McIldowney described the disorder as “absolutely disgraceful”.

She said:

“We believe this disorder was orchestrated, which is shameful as many of those involved have been described as young people. They are being used and exploited, and that is reprehensible.

“To the adults that were present last night and involved in the disorder, you are responsible for placing young people involved in danger. Last night there wasn’t just a risk to their safety, but to their future if they end up with a criminal record.”

Heightened police presence promised

Superintendent McIldowney said the disorder did not reflect the work being carried out by communities across the city and district.

She added:

“Last night’s disorder is not welcomed or wanted by any right thinking person, and shows the lack of respect by those involved for the community.

“It is not reflective of the amazing work that goes on by so many people every single day in communities across the city and District.

“To the local community we know the disorder will have been very unsettling and frightening for many of you, but I want to reassure you will see a heightened and visible police presence in the area.”

Appeal for footage and information

An investigation is under way and police are seeking dashcam, CCTV or other footage that could help identify those responsible.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting reference 1488 of 07/09/26.

Reports can also be submitted through the PSNI’s non-emergency reporting form here.

Information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting here.

The investigation will now focus on identifying those who organised and participated in the disorder, while residents have been told to expect an increased police presence in the area.