PSNI issues cautions for public order offences and fixed penalty notices in operation to ‘minimise disruption’ during fuel protests
The PSNI says a number of people were cautioned for public order offences during a policing operation in response to fuel protests in Northern on Tuesday (April 14).
Also during the operation, the drivers of a number of vehicles were issued with fixed penalty notices for road traffic offences.
Areas affected by protests, involving slow moving vehicles, included the Sydenham Bypass, Westlink, M2, A1, A4 and A5. The A6 at Toome was also blocked by protesters for a period of time.
In a statement on Tuesday evening, the PSNI added that a proportionate policing response was implemented to ensure public safety and to help minimise disruption to the wider community.
Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett commented: “Today’s policing operation was designed to minimise disruption to the strategic road network, maintain business as usual at critical infrastructure and to prevent escalation and prolonged disruption.
“The right to freedom of speech and freedom of assembly are fundamental human rights which are protected in law and allow individuals to engage in peaceful protest. However, these rights are balanced by the need to uphold the rights of others, protect public health and safety, minimise disruption to normal life and by the need to prevent and detect crime.
“An evidence-gathering operation was in place and we will now review the footage gathered in order to consider further prosecution for any potential offences.”