UK: Three injured July 9 in apparent sectarian violence in Londonderry

Event

On Monday, July 9, at least 26 petrol bombs were thrown in the Bogside region of Londonderry, also known as Derry (Northern Ireland), targeting the Fountain estate, where the majority of residents are Protestant; it was the third consecutive night of similar unrest. One woman and two police officers were injured, while riot police arrested three men for their role in the violence. Local sources report that a car was torched on Fahan Street. The violence echoed that which occurred on July 7 and 8 in Londonderry, which has a history of sectarian violence. However, it is not known what precisely sparked this current outbreak of violence. The attacks were immediately condemned by the political parties DUP, SLDP, UUP, and Sinn Féin. Authorities have reportedly stepped up patrols in affected areas. Also on Monday, residents held a rally in Meenan Square to denounce the violence of recent days. Further outbreaks of violence, and rallies against such incidents, are possible in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in Northern Ireland are advised to monitor developments to the situation and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.