Long condemns violence in Londonderry~Derry
Date published:
Justice Minister Naomi Long has condemned the serious disorder in Derry~Londonderry yesterday evening.
The Minister said: “Yet again we have seen disturbing scenes on our streets with the eruption of violence and disorder last night in Derry. Yet again, the PSNI came under attack and yet again a number of officers were injured. There is absolutely no place in our society for such disorder and there is absolutely no justification for it.”
The Minister appealed to those involved to consider their actions, which may result in a criminal conviction. She said: “Those involved in this disorder will be pursued by the PSNI and will be brought to justice in a court of law. This could have a serious impact on individuals in terms of employability, international travel and much more. Rioting is never 'recreational': it is serious criminality which places lives at risk and destroys communities.”
“I send my best wishes to those injured officers, and I wish them a speedy recovery. No one deserves to be attacked for the job they do. I am committed to introducing stronger legislation to protect police officers and staff as part of my Sentencing Bill which I hope to introduce to the Assembly in the autumn of this year.”
Anyone with information which could assist the police and bring those involved in violence to justice can contact 101.
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