'Real fear' that 'serious clashes' in Derry will 'lead to serious injury or even worse' - Durkan
SDLP MLA for Foyle, Mark H Durkan, has said there is a ‘real fear’ that ‘serious clashes’ in Derry will lead to ‘serious injury or even worse’ and told how residents are being severely impacted.
Mr Durkan said: “I've been made aware of serious clashes last night (Wednesday) at Lisnagelvin pitches involving groups on young people.
"This isn't an isolated incident, residents have been dealing with months of heartache and headache with ongoing anti-social behaviour. This is having a serious impact on those living nearby, especially older residents and those with young children.
"Furthermore,there is a real fear that the continuation and escalation of this activity will result in serious injury or even worse to the young people involved - and, as we've sadly seen before, even those who have nothing to do with it whatsoever.
Mr Durkan said he has been engaging with the PSNI and Council ‘again following last night's events,’ and has asked for the site to be secured.
He has also asked that access at Gelvin Grange ‘be closed off.’
A PSNI spokesperson confirmed that police received reports in relation to ‘anti-social behaviour in the Waterside on Wednesday evening, April 22’. “Just after 6pm, it was reported there were two large groups of young people - described as teenage boys - some of whom were masked and were throwing stones at each other.
"Some were carrying what was described as sticks and bats. One of the reports stated these youths were seen running towards Lisnagelvin Playing Fields. “Police responded, and upon arrival in the area, there were approximately 15-20 youths who had congregated, and were standing opposite the Lisnagelvin pitches. Those who had gathered subsequently made off when police arrived. “Police continued to extensively patrol the area, but did not locate any of those who they had seen earlier, or any further large groups. “There were further reports made to police from between 9.30pm and 9.45pm. These reported youths congregating in the same area, some carrying wooden planks. There was a report about a possible organised fight. “Police responded, and upon arrival, there were approximately 15-20 males, however they dispersed and left the area.