PSNI confirm 14-year-old boy was arrested during search

Two males aged 23 and 14, who were present in the property, were arrested on suspicion of assault on police, the PSNI stated.

They were de-arrested a short time later and a file will be prepared for onward transmission to the PPS, the force added.

Chief Superintendent Emma Bond said: “Prior to any search activity conducted by the Police Service of Northern Ireland a comprehensive and thorough assessment is undertaken, including the impact on the community which is considered along with the purpose of the search. We are mindful of the impact that such searches have on the community and we seek to ensure all of our interactions are professional, respectful and courteous.

“Protecting the public and keeping people safe is and will always be our priority.”

Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan said: “A party delegation will meet the PSNI this week to directly raise concerns about reports of heavy-handed policing during a recent police search in the city in which a 14-year-old child with special needs was arrested and subsequently released.

“This vulnerable child has been very badly affected by his ordeal. The public rightly expects the very highest policing and human rights standards and we will hold the police to account when their actions fail to meet those standards.”

The PSNI said that if anyone has a complaint regarding police actions they can contact the office of the Police Ombudsman.