Two DUP MLAs have sharply criticised the PSNI over its handling of a weekend protest in Scarva, County Down, accusing officers of provoking confrontation.

Upper Bann MLA Jonathan Buckley said on the Stephen Nolan programme on Monday that the police had moved from an agreed plan, raising tensions. He argued that by bringing water cannon and dogs, the PSNI gave the impression of agitating for a fight.

South Down MLA Diane Forsythe asserted that the PSNI was intent on ramming into a crowd and triggering a riot on Saturday. She said DUP elected representatives had negotiated with the police and agreed to stand with the people on the side of law and peace.

The operation in the County Down village involved a heavy police presence, including water cannon and dogs. The MLAs’ remarks are the latest in a political row over the policing of the event.