Teens arrested and man (30s) charged after police ‘attacked’ in Derry

The PSNI said the officers were responding to a report of pellet guns being fired at a shopping centre when a number of people assaulted the officers.

Police said two teenage girls and two boys were arrested and have all been bailed.

A man in his 30s has been charged in relation to the incident.

The PSNI condemned the assaults on their officers.

PSNI Inspector Craig said: “At around 7.15pm, police attended a report of BB/pellet guns being fired at members of the public in a shopping centre.

“Whilst in attendance, three police officers sustained injuries after being assaulted by a number of people.

“One officer was kicked, whilst a second hand officer’s hand was stamped on, requiring hospital treatment.

“A third officer’s arm was injured after the door of a police vehicle was slammed on it.

“Two teenage girls were arrested on suspicion of offences including assault on police, disorderly behaviour, and attempted criminal damage to a police vehicle.

“A teenage boy and a young boy were arrested on suspicion of offences including possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence, common assault, criminal damage, disorderly behaviour, and assault on police.

“All four have been bailed to return for interview at a later date.

“A man in his 30s has been charged with disorderly behaviour and obstructing police.

“He is due to appear at Londonderry Magistrates Court on Wednesday July 17, 2024.

“As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.”

Inspector Craig continued: “Our enquiries remain ongoing, and we are appealing to anyone with any information which might assist us to get in touch via 101, quoting reference number 1460 of 21/06/24.

“Although a BB/pellet gun is legal to sell, purchase and possess, and a firearm licence is not required, owners have a responsibility to use them safely.

“The use of BB/Pellet guns in a public place can cause injury or damage to property, which may constitute a criminal offence.

“Police remind anyone who owns one to be responsible because when they are used recklessly they have the potential to cause serious injury.”

Inspector Craig added: “I would also reiterate the message that assaults on police are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated as simply being ‘part of the job’.

“Our ask is that officers and the work they do should not be taken for granted – no one should be treated the way these officers were last night.”