Five arrests in Holyland area of Belfast

Police have made five arrests after being called out to the Holyland area of south Belfast overnight.

It followed reports of young people gathering in residential addresses, playing loud music and drinking in the street, a spokesperson said.

“As police officers attended a number of addresses to provide advice and guidance around potential breaches of Covid-19 health regulations, one 18-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences,” said Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick.

The man was subsequently charged with disorderly behaviour and is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court next month.

The chief inspector continued:“ As police continued to patrol the area, just before 2.30am, they signalled a vehicle which was being driven erratically to stop. 

“Before the vehicle came to a complete stop, the driver climbed out of their seat and dived into the rear of the vehicle.

“Thanks to the quick action of police, they stopped the car safely and have arrested four males aged, 21, 25, 28 and 35 year of age, on suspicion of a number of offences including driving while unfit, taking and driving away, disorderly behaviour, criminal damage, obstructing and resisting police.”

Police said they have warned young people that “while we do not want to see anyone gaining a criminal record, that’s the very real prospect for the five people arrested in the early hours of this morning”.

Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick said: “Our message is very clear.  

“All students or anyone visiting the Holyland area must follow the latest Covid-19 health and safety advice and specific guidance regarding houses of multiple occupancy provided by the universities.

“Students living off campus must be mindful of the importance of building good relationships with local residents. 

“They must be respectful of their neighbours who do not want to kept awake all night with parties and do not want to have their property damaged.”