'Sticks, bats and iron bars used' in disorder in Derry by 'rival football fans;
The PSNI are investigating public disorder in the Lecky Road and Lone Moor area where fans were seen 'attacking each other' with 'sticks, bats, and iron bars' while further disorder was seen in the vicinity of the Brandywell.
Politician Padraig Delargy said of the incident: 'The sight of masked youths armed with an array of weapons, and fighting in the streets before turning on the PSNI was terrifying for local residents, including children, who witnessed this appalling violence.
'In what seems to have been be a pre-arranged attack connected to a football match at the Brandywell, the violence erupted when so-called football supporters from Dublin attacked local youths as well as cars and property belonging to residents."That is disgraceful and the violence that took place on our streets needs to be condemned."It threatened the safety and well-being of local residents and stands in stark contrast to the fantastic work that is going on in the area through the Féile and the redevelopment of Meenan Square.'
In a statement from the PSNI when contacted by the Irish Mirror, they said: "Shortly after 7pm on Friday evening, police were made aware of two large groups of rival football supporters in the area attacking each other near the Lecky Road flyover with sticks, bats and iron bars and causing damage to buildings and cars parked in the area."
The PSNI said a teenage boy and man in his 20s were taken to hospital for treatment after sustaining injuries.
"Further disorder then occurred in the vicinity of the Brandywell stadium during and after a football match which was taking place. Officers were in attendance and worked along with stadium staff to bring the disorder under control. No arrests have been made at this time."
Superintendent William Calderwood said: 'We believe that the disorder we witnessed on Friday evening was pre-arranged and we will be reviewing all available footage to identify those involved."
The PSNI also urged anyone with footage or who can assist to contact officers at Strand Road on 101, quoting reference number 1637 25/07/25.
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