Speaking about the violence last night, Northern Ireland Policing Board Chair Brendan Mullan said:
I condemn the violence, disorder, intimidation and destruction inflicted on the streets of Northern Ireland last night.
Attacks on innocent people’s homes, cars, businesses, public services and the police are simply indefensible.
Violence only serves to deepen division, damage communities and it must stop. There is no room for the vigilantism witnessed last night, and those engaged in such activity will face a criminal justice response by the PSNI.
I thank the police officers and emergency service colleagues who worked to protect people and helped those in danger to safety.
It is welcome that policing has been supported by political and community leaders, and it is important this support continues in the days ahead.
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