Creggan concerns raised with PSNI by Derry SDLP delegation

After the meeting Colr. Brian Tierney said: “There was a very frank and open discussion, which was particularly focused on events surrounding a house search in the Ballymagowan area last week.”

Colr. Boyle added: “Whilst we understand that it is important for police to investigate and pursue... we reiterated our view that some of the police tactics on the day in question had been counterproductive.”

Ms McLaughlin csaid the SDLP “in no uncertain terms” condemned those who were responsible for placing petrol bombs in the hands of children and encouraging attacks on the police.

“The result was that a young boy, of around twelve years of age, burned himself. Only for the quick reaction of local youth workers the child could have been maimed for life,” she said.

Mr Durkan added: “We discussed, at length, the challenges of policing in Creggan and the wider community and the importance of improving relationships and building trust.

“We also pointed out that we are supportive when it comes to investigating and apprehending criminals of every variety. However, we said that on this occasion some police tactics were viewed as over the top and aggressive and that police should take stock and review.”

The meeting followed concerns raised over police tactics and disturbances in the Creggan area last Thursday evening during a major search operation.