Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA has again appealed for calm in Derry-Londonderry, after a sixth night of violence saw police officers come under attack from petrol bombs and improvised explosives.
Mrs Long said: “I completely condemn this violence. I appeal to the entire community to stand together in support of the police and in opposition to those behind this wanton destruction of their city.
“It is clearly a deliberate attempt by dissident republicans to intimidate a minority, raise sectarian tensions and recruit a new generation of young people to their activities.
“With worrying reports of children as young as eight-years-old taking part, it is nothing short of child abuse. It exposes those orchestrating the violence for what they are: mindless thugs who care nothing for the local community and are willing to put children at risk of injury or worse.
“The rule of law must be upheld and I would appeal for anyone with information to work with the PSNI to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”