Creggan: Police attacked with petrol bombs during searches

Police have been attacked with petrol bombs, rocks and masonry in Londonderry.

One officer was struck on the head, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has said.

The disorder started after police began three searches in Bligh's Lane in Creggan at about 16:00 BST as part of an ongoing terrorism investigation.

They found a suspected firearm, a number of suspected pipe bombs and a quantity of suspected ammunition.

"During the searches, a quantity of cash and a firearm have been seized which will be subject to forensic examination," the PSNI said.

"Petrol bombs, rocks, masonry, steel poles and traffic cones were thrown at police, damaging police Land Rovers."

Appeal for calm

Supt William Calderwood added: "We appreciate the disruption search activity can have but I want to reassure you of this - our presence in the area and activity we carry out is about keeping people safe. That is our priority and we would appeal for calm."

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said he had spoken to residents and appealed to police to "end their operation as soon as possible so peace can be restored".

"Violence will solve nothing," he said in a social-media post.

In a statement, Mr Eastwood said there was "nothing to be gained from attacking police officers in Derry - the young kids involved are only putting themselves and their futures in jeopardy".

He added: "I am appealing for parents to get in touch with their children, to make sure they know where they are and that they are safe this evening."

Mr Eastwood called the recovery of a suspected gun, ammunition and pipe bomb "deeply concerning" and said the SDLP "will be meeting with the PSNI in the coming days to discuss these matters".