A businessman claimed officers were more concerned about gathering evidence than intervening to stop the destruction
A businessman has criticised the police handling of riots in Belfast, accusing officers of watching on as shops and cafes burned.
Mr Atif was particularly critical of the PSNI ’s handling of the rioting in Belfast that saw businesses run by members of ethnic minority communities burned. He said officers were more concerned about gathering evidence for subsequent investigations rather than intervening to stop the destruction.“They stand, they watch, they let the incident happen, they gather the evidence, and then they go after them.
“Maybe there is something Northern Ireland Assembly can do to class us as a citizens of this country, to class us as a local. Please do not call us immigrants anymore. Honestly, this hurts when you look into yourself and you see that what you have done. “I’d like to recognise and thank those who have done so for the positive support from many political leaders who stood firm in condemning all forms of racism, xenophobia and Islamophobia, and the community response has been incredibly heartwarming,” she told the committee.
“It’s time for the Assembly to take meaningful action that goes beyond statements or reports, because we’ve had so many, ensuring that inclusivity and equality are not just ideals, but lived realities.”
Sandy Row Upper Newtownards Road East Belfast Stormont
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Education Authority has failed controlled schools, says GivanThe education minister made the comments as he answered questions from MLAs on Tuesday.
Read more »
Police release further images in connection with disorder and attacks on policeAnti-immigration protests in Belfast spilled into sporadic disorder over several nights
Read more »
Four children arrested on suspicion of murdering 80-year-old man releasedA 14-year-old boy remains in police custody, Leicestershire Police said
Read more »
Appeal to find 11-year-old Ibrahim last seen outside Poundland in HayesIn a statement, police said Ibrahim 'is not in any trouble with the police or parents'.
Read more »
Alleged drug dealing PC 'dropped cocaine bag at school'Ex-Greater Manchester Police officer Andrew Talbot is accused of taking the drugs from police storage.
Read more »
Police And Crime Minister Robbed While Attending Police ConferenceKevin Schofield is Politics Editor of HuffPost UK.
Read more »