Belfast: Objects thrown at police in east of the city

Police have come under attack in a further night of disorder in Belfast.

Objects were thrown at officers at the junction of the Albertbridge Road and Newtownards Road in the east of the city.

Fires were lit and officers in riot gear were deployed.

It follows several nights of rioting and disorder in the city.

As the violence broke out again on Wednesday night, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said it had appealed for help from extra officers from other parts of the UK.

It also said it had “significantly mobilised” its existing pool of officers, which would include them working “longer shifts and rest days”.

In a statement, Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: “Increasing our resources and footprint across Northern Ireland in the coming days will enable us to manage planned events and deal with any sporadic incidents, including disorder.”

“We have also submitted a request to National Police Co-ordination Centre for additional officers from across the United Kingdom to support the policing operation.

“The mutual aid officers will provide vital resilience and support and will be given all of the necessary equipment and familiarisation training.”

Officers from the rest of the UK would only assist with public order incidents, the PSNI said.