Large-Scale Unrest Reported Across Northern Ireland as Multiple Hotels Damaged in Night of Disorder


Police and emergency services in Northern Ireland were placed under significant pressure on Tuesday night after serious disorder broke out in several cities, including Belfast, Derry and Lisburn, following protests linked to migration and public policy.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that a number of buildings, including hotels being used to accommodate asylum seekers, were damaged during the disturbances. Several fires were reported at different locations, and officers said investigations are continuing to establish the full scale of the damage and how each incident began.
Large crowds gathered in city centres during the evening. While some demonstrations began peacefully, police said that a number of individuals later broke away from protest groups and became involved in criminal damage, arson and attacks on property. Missiles, including bricks and bottles, were thrown at officers in several locations.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that crews responded to multiple fires throughout the night. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service also attended a number of incidents, and health authorities said people were treated for injuries connected to the unrest. Hospitals activated emergency plans to manage additional pressure on services.

One hotel in Belfast, which had been providing temporary accommodation for asylum seekers, was among the buildings seriously damaged by fire. Police confirmed that all occupants had been safely moved away from the site before the situation escalated.
Senior PSNI officers condemned the violence and warned that those responsible for arson, criminal damage and assaults on emergency workers will be pursued using CCTV, forensic evidence and public information.
Community leaders and local politicians across Northern Ireland issued joint appeals for calm, stressing that attacks on accommodation sites and public buildings place residents, staff and nearby communities at serious risk. They also urged people to express political concerns through peaceful and lawful means.
The unrest follows weeks of rising tension over the continued use of hotels to house asylum seekers. Some residents have raised concerns about pressure on public services and a lack of consultation, while community organisations have warned that misinformation and online rumours are contributing to fear and division.