PSNI Appeal for Calm After Second Night of Disorder Across Northern Ireland

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson has appealed for calm after a second night of disorder across parts of Northern Ireland. Sixteen people were arrested, 12 officers were injured, and police used water cannon and AEPs during serious public order incidents in Glengormley, Belfast, Portadown and Derry/Londonderry.

PSNI Calls for Return to Calm Across Northern Ireland

The PSNI has appealed for calm across Northern Ireland after a second night of disorder saw officers attacked, vehicles set alight and businesses, schools and transport services disrupted.

Speaking at a media facility in Belfast on Thursday, 11 June 2026, Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson strongly condemned what he described as violent behaviour by a “thuggish minority”.

He said the disorder had caused fear in communities, forced businesses to shut, disrupted public transport and led to schools closing early.

ACC Henderson said: “Our communities in Northern Ireland deserve to get their lives back to normal.”

Sixteen Arrests and 12 Officers Injured

Police confirmed there were 16 arrests linked to disorder on Wednesday night, with two people already charged.

Twelve officers were injured during rioting in Belfast, Glengormley and Portadown. Some of the injuries were caused by petrol bombs.

Police used water cannon and fired 20 AEPs during the public order response.

ACC Henderson said officers had faced significant violence and praised them for their work.

He said: “It was clear from the outset that those who attended were not intent on peaceful protest, but on violence.”

Disorder Reported in Glengormley, Belfast, Portadown and Derry/Londonderry

Police said serious disorder took place in several areas on Wednesday night.

Glengormley

In the Antrim Road area of Glengormley, officers came under sustained attack.

Police said flares and masonry were thrown at officers. A bin lorry, a car and a vacant building were also set on fire.

A hijacked van was pushed towards police during the disorder.

Water cannon was deployed throughout the public order operation. Police also used baton strikes and fired 15 AEPs.

Seven arrests were made in the area.

Belfast

In the West Circular Road area of Belfast, police said around 20 masked males blocked the road.

Missiles were also thrown at officers.

Portadown

In Portadown, a property in Carleton Street was attacked at around 9pm.

Police said disorder continued for several hours. AEPs were discharged and one officer was injured.

Five arrests were made in Portadown.

Derry/Londonderry

In the Tullyalley Road area of Derry/Londonderry, bins were used to block the road.

A police vehicle was also damaged.

Op Exposure Campaign Launched

The PSNI has now launched its Op Exposure campaign.

As part of the campaign, police are releasing images of people they want to speak to in connection with the disorder.

ACC Henderson said more images will be released as detectives continue working to identify those responsible.

He warned those involved in violence that the consequences could be serious.

He said: “The stakes for you are high. We will bring you to justice.”

PSNI Says Violence Is Not Peaceful Protest

ACC Henderson said peaceful protest is part of a democratic society.

However, he said the recent disorder “bears no resemblance” to peaceful protest.

He also referred to the statement from the Ogilvie family, who called for calm following the attack on Stephen Ogilvie in north Belfast.

ACC Henderson said violence is “not in Stephen’s name”.

Threats Against Healthcare Workers Condemned

The Assistant Chief Constable also condemned threats and intimidation directed at nurses, carers and other healthcare workers.

He described healthcare staff as the backbone of public service.

He said police had been in contact with health trusts to discuss staff welfare and safety.

ACC Henderson also confirmed he was meeting Unison, business representatives and minority communities to hear their concerns.

Extra Police Patrols Planned

Police said patrols will be increased in key areas tonight.

The PSNI will also be supported by policing colleagues from across Great Britain through Mutual Aid.

ACC Henderson said officers will be on the ground in significant numbers to protect communities and prevent further disorder.

He added: “The streets of Northern Ireland need to return to calm and order. Our children need to feel safe returning to their schools and businesses need to feel they can open their doors.”

Appeal for Information

Police are continuing to investigate the disorder and are reviewing footage.

Anyone with information, images or video footage that could assist police is asked to contact the PSNI.

Community Appeal

ACC Henderson said everyone with influence should do what they can to help restore calm.

He said the PSNI will be robust in bringing order back to the streets.

He added: “We stand together with our communities. Together, we are stronger than them.”

Anyone with information about disorder in their area should contact police on 101. People are also urged not to share misleading images, unverified claims or footage that could increase fear within local communities.