Security operation curbs east Belfast violence

A large security operation around the Short Strand area of east Belfast last night prevented the violence that has plagued the…

A large security operation around the Short Strand area of east Belfast last night prevented the violence that has plagued the Cluan Place/Clandeboye Drive interface recently.

However, a pipe bomb caused extensive shrapnel damage when it was thrown into the front room of a house on Seaview Drive. The sole occupant, who was upstairs at the time, was treated for shock.

In Fortwilliam, about 200 windows were smashed at Castle High School. Police believe the attack happened between 6 p.m. and 7.30 p.m.

Sinn Féin councillor for the Short Strand Mr Joe O'Donnell said he was not happy with the huge security force operation, saying the area had been effectively put "under curfew". However, he said: "If it brings calm to this situation then certainly I would be quite happy for that to happen".

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Northern Ireland Security Minister Ms Jane Kennedy last night announced she would be discussing the violence with new Chief Constable Hugh Orde on Monday after he takes office.

She did not comment on Asst Chief Constable Alan McQuillan's claim yesterday that paramilitaries wer behind the republican violence but said the east Belfast security operation and calls for CCTV cameras was a "a security response, but there is not a security solution".

This morning, the Church of Ireland Primate, Archbishop Robin Eames, pleaded with paramilitaries to suspend their violence. He said: "It's in the interests of everybody, before this gets completely out of control, to draw back for a period in which we know there are people working very hard to try and bring some sort of peace."

Additional reporting PA