02-07-2025
Police issue penalties after abuse directed at bands at Belfast Somme events
The 23-year-old was detained on suspicion of disorderly behaviour.
An officer also sustained a minor injury, having been struck on the head by a bottle during the parade.
The arrest took place in the Castle Street area of the city centre at 8.50pm.
Separately, a 19-year-old man was issued with a community resolution notice after shouting at a passing band in Royal Avenue.
A 16-year-old boy was also cautioned for shouting offensive slogans at a lodge member while it passed through Castle Place.
Though no offences were detected, a small grouping of young people were also noted to be acting disorderly in the Short Strand area.
TUV councillor Ron McDowell branded the incidents as intolerance.
'Attacks on Orange parades have been reported in multiple locations across the city, both verbal and physical in nature,' he said.
"The lodge I have been a member of for many years came under both verbal abuse and physical harassment on Royal Avenue.
'Similar reports are coming in from other areas as well.'
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Mr McDowell said 'this kind of intolerance is nothing new'.
"Anyone who has been a member of the Loyal Orders for any length of time will have their own experiences to share,' he added.
