PSNI conducting checks on roads and at transport hubs ahead of protests

Demonstration outside Belfast City Hall on Wednesday afternoon. Credit: Pacemaker

Police across Northern Ireland are conducting checks on roads and at transport hubs ahead of planned anti-racism protests.

They said anyone travelling to take part in a demonstration can expect to bestopped, advised to return home and could face a fine or court appearance.

Protests are expected to take places in Belfast city centre and in Londonderry later today.

Demonstrations have been held around the world amid an outpouring of anger over racism and police brutality in America.

Mr Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, died in police custody in Minneapolis last month.

Protests have already been held, including in Belfast where a vigil paid tribute to Mr Floyd at Writers’ Square on Sunday night.

46-year-old George Floyd died in police custody in Minneapolis last month. Credit: Family photo

The largest demonstration came on Wednesday, when thousands of people bearing placards converged outside Belfast City Hall.

Demonstration outside Belfast City Hall on Wednesday afternoon. Credit: Pacemaker

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd issued a strong appeal to the public not to take part in protests this weekend.

Mr Todd said any gathering of more than six people is against coronavirusregulations, as is travelling for a protest.

On Friday night, organisers of Black Lives Matter demonstrations in Belfast and Londonderry indicated they planned to proceed with social distancing measures in place.

However, planned protests in Newry, Portadown and Omagh have been cancelled.

Meanwhile, the Northern Ireland Assembly will show its support for Saturday's day of solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement by lighting Parliament Buildings yellow.

Stormont Speaker Alex Maskey described the initiative as a way of demonstrating solidarity which complies with the coronavirus regulations.