Five men and two teenagers were arrested following disturbances in the flashpoint Broadway area of Belfast in the early hours of Sunday.
Flares and masonry were thrown during the disturbances at an intersection of west and south Belfast, where flare ups have occurred over many years.
“Shortly after 12.30am, it was reported that a group of men were throwing flares and masonry,” West Belfast, Chief Inspector Claire Hamilton said.
Officers were deployed arrested five men aged 31, 27, 23, 22, 21, and two males aged 17 on suspicion of riotous behaviour, police said. They remained in police custody on Sunday.
“This type of behaviour causes fear within our communities. Whilst we are thankful that no members of the public or Police Officers were injured during this incident, this kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Chief Inspector Hamilton added.
“We will continue to work alongside our partner agencies, local representatives and the community to take action and provide a visible policing presence in the area and I would encourage you to report incidents of anti-social behaviour.
“We all have a responsibility to help make where we live safer for everyone. Reporting crimes or incidents that impact on your quality of life helps focus our patrols where they are needed and take positive action.”
West Belfast Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey condemned the violence, saying those involved were “attempting to wreak havoc on local residents”.
“Thankfully, no one was injured during this disorder, although clearly this could have resulted in a much more serious incident,” Mr Maskey said.
“I welcome the swift response by police in arresting seven suspects who are continuing to assist with inquiries in custody.”
