THE PSNI has arrested two teenage boys in connection with the racist attacks on Romanian families in Belfast. The arrests of the youths, aged 15 and 16, followed a series of searches at addresses on Donegall Avenue in south Belfast a short distance from the scenes of the intimidation earlier this week which saw more than 100 Romanian people taking shelter in church property.
The families are still in temporary accommodation at a secret location in Belfast.
Chief Constable Sir Hugh Orde met Romanian ambassador Ion Jinga yesterday for talks following criticism that the PSNI did too little to protect vulnerable migrant communities.
A PSNI spokeswoman described the meeting as “positive”. She said Sir Hugh Orde outlined to the ambassador what his officers are doing to ensure Romanians living in Belfast are safe and protected.
A protest march against racist attacks has been organised for Belfast city centre later today.
Barbara Muldoon, of the Anti Racism Network said there was a need for a co-ordinated response to the race crimes of the past week.
Police are also investigating threats made against Patrick Meehan who helped organise an anti-racism rally in south Belfast earlier this week which was attacked by a mob. Mr Meehan confirmed he was under threat but said he would not be intimidated by thugs.
