Police out in force in east Belfast as large crowds gather at Short Strand interface

A HEAVY police presence was on the streets of east Belfast on Monday night.

Large crowds are reported to have gathered along the interface at Short Strand and Newtownards Road.

Locals say up to 40 police landrovers with Tactical Support Group officers are on the scene.

The crowds soon dispersed after local community representatives appeared on the scene to bring calm to the volatile situation.

On Sunday night, trouble flared in the area after a teenager lobbed a petrol bomb into Cluan Place.

He was later arrested on suspicion of throwing the device and possessing a Class B drug.

Fireworks, bottles and other missiles were also thrown during disturbances in east Belfast.

It happened after police responded to reports that around 80 youths had gathered in the Castlereagh Street area.

Police said no injuries had been reported during the trouble.

A 39-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and provocative conduct.