A police officer suffered a serious injury during an incident of disorder involving young people in the Roden Street area of south Belfast on the evening of Monday 5th May.

Neighbourhood Inspector for south Belfast, Róisín Brown, reported that officers were deployed to Roden Street at approximately 8:15 pm following reports of youth disorder and anti-social behaviour.

"During the incident, a large piece of metal was thrown at a marked police vehicle, narrowly missing the windscreen. The police vehicle was being driven at the time," Inspector Brown stated.

She continued: "When police attempted to apprehend a suspect, one neighbourhood officer sustained a broken foot. He is receiving support but will be unable to carry out duties for a considerable amount of time whilst he recovers." The Inspector highlighted the impact of such incidents on policing resources: "At a time when the police service is already stretched, this means that there is one less neighbourhood officer available to the community in South Belfast."

A 16-year-old male was detained at the scene, and police have confirmed they will be pursuing a criminal justice outcome in relation to the incident.

Condemning the violence, Inspector Brown said: "Assaults on our officers are completely unacceptable, and have lasting impacts physically and psychologically. Protecting the community we serve is important to us and injuries like this are not just part of the job."

She also appealed to parents and guardians: "I am once again asking parents and guardians to also speak to their young people. Know where they are, and help us by preventing them from engaging in behaviour which could result in injury or a criminal record."

Police are urging anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour in the area to contact them on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

"Assaults on police pose a serious threat to the vital service police provide, and we will continue work with the Police Federation for Northern Ireland to support our officers," Inspector Brown concluded.