West Belfast: Persistent anti-social behaviour is ‘scary for our community’

In an update, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said they were continuing to investigate disorder and reckless riding of scramblers in the area.

They added that a 27-year-old had been charged with disorderly behaviour, and was due to appear before Belfast Magistrates’ Court on 14 August.

A 22-year-old man arrested in connection with a serious assault involving iron bars has been released on police bail to allow for further enquiries.

Ch Insp Philip Robinson said police “intended to make further arrests”.

“As part of these enquiries, a 14-year-old teenage boy was arrested on Sunday 19 July on suspicion of a number of offences including riot and disorderly behaviour.

“Following police interview, he was released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.

“Our targeted patrols will also continue in the Stewartstown Road and other areas to detect offenders on bikers who are driving illegally,” Robinson said.

“We would also reiterate our appeal to parents and guardians to speak to your young people and warn them of the dangers of getting involved in behaviour which could result in them obtaining a criminal record.”

Justice Minister Naomi Long called the disorder “appalling”.

“The police being attacked in the way they were, the scenes were disgraceful.

“Their parents ought to know where they are and ought to be held accountable if they don’t,” she told BBC Radio Ulster’s The Nolan Show.

She said called on people on scramblers in the area to “consider what they’re putting at risk”.