Riot Escalation: Police Under Attack in Northern Ireland

Further disorder has broken out in parts of Northern Ireland this Friday evening.

Disorder in Portadown and Other Locations
It's understood that a number of petrol bombs, bricks and a beer keg have been thrown at police in Portadown, where a protest is underway for a second night. Earlier Translink had diverted bus services due to expected protests. Demonstrations were also due to be held in several other locations including Lisburn, north Belfast and Antrim. More details on the escalating situation.

Prepared Policing Operation
A large policing presence is expected across Northern Ireland this weekend after the disorder over the past week. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson announced a scaled-up policing operation to reassure communities and protect streets. The mobilization includes officers from Scotland.

Week of Shame
Amid a week of persistent disorder, 63 police officers were injured. Burning homes, attacks on a leisure center, and targeted violence have marred the region. Chief Constable Jon Boutcher vowed to pursue the perpetrators and highlighted the impact on a young sexual assault victim. Additional support from Scottish police is set to reinforce the PSNI. Political leaders have urged for calm during a recent council meeting.