Police in Londonderry have appealed for calm after officers came under attack for a second consecutive night in the Waterside area.

Disorder broke out shortly after 8pm on Monday, 28 September, in the Strabane Old Road/Irish Street area. A crowd of mostly young people, some masked, gathered and threw petrol bombs and masonry at police during a public safety operation. Calm was restored around 10pm, but police maintained a presence to prevent further trouble.

Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, area commander for Derry City and Strabane, said an investigation is underway to identify those involved and make arrests. She added there will be an increased police presence across the city. She noted the disruption caused to the public, including a road closure that forced drivers to divert for their safety. Kearney said residents deserve to live in peace and that the disorder caused fear. She pledged continued engagement with stakeholders and praised officers for putting themselves in harm's way.

On Sunday night, police were targeted with petrol bombs, fireworks and bottles in the same area. Fires were lit on roads, and Irish Street was closed to allow police to bring the situation under control. According to police, no injuries or damage to houses have been reported, though some police vehicles were damaged.

Sinn Féin councillor Christopher Jackson condemned the actions of a small minority behind the disorder. He said those responsible had nothing to offer and were trying to drag communities back. He added that bringing petrol bombs onto the streets feeds their agenda and that young people should not be used as pawns.

Ulster Unionist Alderman Janice Montgomery described the incidents as sectarian attacks that must stop. She said youths armed with bricks, bats and golf clubs attacked homes of elderly residents in Irish Street on Sunday night. She also said youth football teams practising at the Waterside Shared Village were forced to leave on Monday evening.

DUP MLA Julie Middleton said community workers were on the scene for hours trying to calm things down. She said residents on both sides are fearful and called on elected representatives to unite in supporting the law. She also condemned the throwing of petrol bombs and masonry.

Police are appealing for information, including dash-cam or CCTV footage. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1435 of 28/09/26.