Fines issued by police after fuel protests take place in numerous locations across Northern Ireland
Police have said a number of drivers were issued with Fixed Penalty Notices for road traffic offences and a number of other persons were cautioned for public order offences during today’s protest over rising fuel costs.
A number of protests, involving slow moving vehicles, took place across Northern Ireland as the Sydenham Bypass, Westlink, M2, A1, A4 and A5 were affected.
The A6 at Toome was also blocked by protesters for a period of time.
Police say that “a proportionate policing response” was implemented to ensure public safety and to help minimise disruption to the wider community.
It was further confirmed that during the policing operation the drivers of a number of vehicles were issued with Fixed Penalty Notices for road traffic offences and a number of other persons were cautioned for public order offences.
Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett said: “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.”