Disorder Erupts Ahead of Irish Cup Semi-Final, Nine Officers Injured
Nine police officers sustained injuries, and a child was hit by a bottle, during a period of significant disorder that erupted before an Irish Cup semi-final in south Belfast on Friday night. The unrest, which preceded the match at Windsor Park where Cliftonville faced Dungannon Swifts, saw fireworks, flares, and bottles indiscriminately thrown.
Police and Club Condemn Behaviour
Police confirmed that a 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour, a provocative act, possession of fireworks/flares at a regulated match, indecent behaviour, and attempted criminal damage. Two other individuals have also been reported for related offences, including the use of flares. The disorder occurred during an approved public procession involving approximately 250 people, primarily Cliftonville supporters. Whilst the majority behaved peacefully, officers observed "provocative conduct and the heavy use of pyrotechnics and fireworks" despite prior warnings.
Jim Boyce, Honorary Life President of the Irish Football Association and patron of Cliftonville F.C., expressed his disgust at the behaviour. He stated, "I have been at Cliftonville for 75 years and have had a lot of messages from good Cliftonville fans who are disgusted that a small element has, once again, besmirched the good name of the club." Boyce appealed to those causing trouble to "stay away as they aren't true supporters."
Superintendent Fiona Dornan, South Belfast District Commander for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), reiterated that the majority of fans were peaceful but condemned the "completely unacceptable behaviour from a proportion of fans both before and after the match." She affirmed that police will not tolerate disorder and are conducting a thorough evidence-gathering operation.
