Full Breakdown
Fireworks Disorder Sparks Fear on Belfast’s Lower Falls Road
9/6/2026, 10:55:16 PM
Incident Overview
On Saturday night, a group of up to 30 youths were reported to have set off fireworks while moving through the Lower Falls Road area of west Belfast. Video circulating on social media shows a youth throwing a firework onto a road toward a crowd and oncoming traffic. Residents described the episode as a “regular occurrence” that left them “tortured” and fearful that homes could be burned down. One long-time resident, Gerard, said children as young as nine were involved.
Official Responses
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that officers responded to the reports but found no youths on arrival. Councillor Paul Doherty, a Belfast City representative, warned that “someone could be seriously injured” and urged an urgent police response.
Community Concerns
Local residents said they had contacted the police after the disturbance but were told it was not an emergency, prompting frustration and a sense of intimidation. The councillor echoed these concerns, emphasizing parental responsibility to monitor children’s whereabouts and activities. Residents expressed anxiety that the pattern of anti-social behaviour could lead to serious injury or property damage if left unchecked.
Verbatim Quote
“Someone could be seriously injured, and I am seeking an urgent response from police tonight to get on top of the situation.” — Paul Doherty, belfast city councillor
