A 27-year-old man has been charged with disorderly behaviour following disturbances on the Stewartstown Road in west Belfast on Saturday night. He is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on 14 August, and the charge will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

Police also detained a 14-year-old boy on Sunday on suspicion of offences including riot and disorderly behaviour. He was later released pending a report to prosecutors. A 22-year-old man arrested in connection with a serious assault involving iron bars has been released on bail.

On Saturday evening, a crowd of around 100 people, many in their early teens, gathered in the area. Bins and loading cages were placed across the road and set alight, and masonry was thrown at officers. One police officer was assaulted and 11 police vehicles were damaged. The road was closed for a time while officers responded.

Youth workers from the Lagmore youth group described a frightening atmosphere. Megan (18) said scrambler bikes and e-scooters were a constant, dangerous presence. Rachel (17) witnessed the disorder after her bus was cancelled and called it scary. Emma (16) said it felt dangerous and urged young people to find alternative activities.

Colm Fanning, project manager at Lagmore, said earlier incidents had created a tense atmosphere. He noted that a commemoration for a young man who died on a bike had been organised through social media, contributing to the gathering.

Justice Minister Naomi Long called the events appalling and said parents should be held accountable for their children’s actions. Sinn Féin MLA Danny Baker condemned the disorder, saying it was not representative of the Colin area, and thanked youth and community workers and residents.

Chief Inspector Philip Robinson said police are progressing the investigation and intend to make further arrests. He described the scenes as shameful and appealed for witnesses. He also urged parents and guardians to speak to young people about the risks of such behaviour.