Six arrests during Belfast St Patrick's celebrations

A senior officer has hailed the St Patrick's Day policing operation in Belfast a success, with only a small number of arrests.

By early evening a total of six people had been detained in relation to public order offences.

placeholder image — St Patrick's Day celebrations in the Holy Lands area of south Belfast. Over the last number of years the area has seen a high number of people come into the area. Picture: Jonathan Porter/PressEye

Although that figure could be revised to take account of later incidents, on Saturday night Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said “only a few people” had failed to heed the police message to stay within the law.

Referencing Ireland’s Grand Slam rugby win over England, ACC Todd said: “There’s been every reason to celebrate today. Unfortunately a few people did not heed our message to act and drink responsibly which has led to 6 arrests.

“Officers will continue to be on patrol to make sure people stay safe. We are not out to spoil anyone’s fun however anti social behaviour will not be tolerated.”