Police attended a planned protest in the Donegall Square North area of Belfast city centre on Sunday, 17 August.

Officers were deployed to the operation, including specially trained evidence gatherers, and were assisted by the Air Support Unit.

During the demonstration, those involved blocked Chichester Street for a short period of time. Police are now reviewing evidence gathered in order to establish whether any offences have been committed by several individuals who were identified as being suspected of possessing articles indicating support for a proscribed organisation. While present, police also received a report of an assault involving a protestor and a member of the public, which is also subject to ongoing enquiries.

Superintendent Hagan stated that while the right to protest, freedom of speech, and freedom of assembly are fundamental human rights, he encouraged anyone engaging in protest activity to do so "lawfully and with consideration for other members of the public who wish to go about their daily business." He confirmed that a full investigation has been launched.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the reported assault or who may have footage that could assist the investigation to contact them on 101 and quote reference 776 of 17/08/25.