Teenager Held after Violence at Irish Cup Semi-Final in South Belfast
Police arrested a 19-year-old man in south Belfast following disorder before the Irish Cup semi-final at Windsor Park on 3 April. The man faces charges including riotous behaviour, provocative acts, possession of fireworks at a regulated match, indecent behaviour, and attempted criminal damage. He remains in custody.
Two other individuals received reports for using flares. Crowds threw fireworks, flares, and bottles at officers. A child suffered a bottle injury. Nine police officers required treatment for injuries.
Superintendent Finola Dornan, South Belfast District Commander, stated most fans acted peacefully. She pointed to a minority's provocative actions, including pyrotechnics during an approved procession of 250 people despite warnings. Police now investigate potential breaches of Parades Commission rules.
Dornan added police will not accept disorder at events and plan evidence gathering with football clubs to protect communities.
Alliance South Belfast MLA Paula Bradshaw called for a coordinated plan to stop future fan misconduct near Windsor Park. She noted local residents' anger over provocative chanting but rejected vigilante responses. Bradshaw highlighted injuries to officers and urged authorities to handle such incidents firmly.