Irish Cup semi-final: Nine officers and child injured in disorder

Before a football match in south Belfast on Friday evening, disorder broke out during an authorized public procession involving around 250 participants, resulting in injuries to nine police officers and a child who was struck by a bottle. Although the majority of attendees behaved peacefully, police reported incidents of provocative actions and extensive use of pyrotechnics and fireworks, despite multiple warnings against such conduct.

Supt Fiona Dornan, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) South Belfast District Commander, emphasized that while most football supporters maintained a peaceful demeanor, a minority engaged in disruptive and provocative behavior. She described the conduct of some fans before and after the game as “completely unacceptable” and noted that this marred what should have been a safe and enjoyable event for everyone present.

The PSNI made an arrest in connection with the incidents, detaining a man on suspicion of several offenses including riotous behavior, performing a provocative act, possession of fireworks or flares at a regulated match, indecent behavior, and attempted criminal damage. He remains in police custody. Additionally, two others have been reported for offenses related to the use of flares.

Authorities also indicated that there may have been numerous violations of the Parades Commission regulations concerning the procession, which are subject to further investigation. Supt Dornan affirmed that the police will carry out a comprehensive evidence-gathering operation following the disturbances and reiterated the commitment to working alongside football clubs to address inappropriate behavior and safeguard the local community

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