Londonderry: Fire crews forced to withdraw over safety concerns

Fire crews were called to four separate incidents near the Fairview Road area of the city

Fire crews were forced to withdraw from the Galliagh area of Londonderry after a number of youths set fire to pallets.

Crews were called to four separate incidents near the Fairview Road area on Monday, between 17:00 and 21:00 BST.

Firefighters attended the first two incidents but were unable to extinguish the fires after being "approached by a large group of youths".

While dealing with a fire at a third incident, the crew had to withdraw due to safety concerns.

The Northern Ireland Fire Rescue Service (NIFRS) said they did not attend the final incident as information received "indicated there was no risk to property or life".

They also said further information indicated it was unsafe to attend due to a risk of being approached again.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said their officers were also there to support the fire service and to assist in clearing the road.

Masonry was thrown at NIFRS crews and damage was also caused to two Northern Ireland Housing Executive vehicles.

Pallets were set alight and a road was partially blocked for a time

"What happened in Galliagh is really disappointing," Ch Insp Willy Calderwood said.

"To see young people involved in this type of criminal behaviour is unacceptable."

The senior officer said this "reckless activity" was not reflective of the community and not supported by the community.

He said officers would continue to work with community leaders and have a visible presence in the area.

'Destroying their own community'

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood has condemned the violence on Monday and also condemned graffiti appearing to target his SDLP party colleague, Brian Tierney, following the unrest.

Mr Eastwood said the Derry City and Strabane District councillor worked "every hour of every day for people in this community".

He said those "scrawling threats on walls in Galliagh don't represent people here, and they won't deter Brian from working for everyone in our city".

The MP called on those responsible to "stop destroying their own community."

The PSNI said they were aware of graffiti and were making enquiries.