Fears of Sectarian Clashes as Masked Youths Gather Carrying Sticks and Bats in Derry’s Waterside

Residents in Derry’s Waterside area expressed growing concern on Wednesday evening, April 22, 2026, after reports emerged of large groups of teenage boys, some masked and carrying sticks and bats, congregating in the vicinity of Lisnagelvin Playing Fields. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) responded to multiple calls regarding anti-social behaviour and potential organised fights, deploying neighbourhood officers to conduct high-visibility reassurance patrols.

According to the PSNI, the first reports came in just after 6pm, describing two large groups of youths throwing stones at each other, with some individuals observed carrying what were described as sticks and bats. One report indicated the groups were moving toward the Lisnagelvin pitches. Upon arrival, officers found approximately 15-20 youths gathered opposite the playing fields, but the group dispersed when police approached.

Further reports were received between 9:30pm and 9:45pm, indicating youths had returned to the same area, some carrying wooden planks, with suspicions of an organised fight. Police responded again, finding a similar number of males in the area, though they dispersed upon police arrival. No arrests were made during these incidents, and the PSNI confirmed they remained in the vicinity to provide reassurance to residents, with no further reports following the patrols.

Local representative Mark H Durkan, SDLP MLA for Foyle, voiced serious concern over the events, describing them as “serious clashes” that are part of an ongoing pattern of anti-social behaviour affecting the community. He emphasized that residents, particularly older individuals and families with young children, have been enduring months of distress due to such incidents, which he stated are having a serious impact on quality of life in the Waterside.

The PSNI reiterated its commitment to monitoring the area and engaging with community leaders to address the root causes of youth-related disorder. Authorities urged parents and guardians to be aware of their children’s whereabouts and called for calm amid rising tensions.