Masked youths gather in Derry with crates of petrol bombs. Pix by North West News Pix
Images shared show one of the petrol bombs landing close to where journalists and photographers were gathered and earlier reports suggested a number of bottles were also thrown at the assembled media.
Those taking part are currently gathering in the area with a police helicopter overhead and a drone warning those in attendance that it is an illegal procession.
The PSNI also confirmed drivers should avoid the Central Drive area and the surrounding area in Creggan due to the presence of “a number of people with petrol bombs” and confirmed a van has been set alight.
The PSNI spokesperson said: “We would ask drivers to avoid Central Drive and the surrounding area in Creggan where there are a number of people with petrol bombs in the area, and a van has been set on fire.
“Police are aware of commentary on social media in relation to petrol bombs being thrown at media in Creggan this afternoon.
“Footage obtained will be reviewed.
“We would appeal to any journalist who was attacked, or anyone who witnessed any attack or who captured footage to report it to police on 101.”
Police on the ground were attacked at the same event last year with petrol bombs and other missiles.
Earlier, the event organised by the Derry 1916 Commemoration Committee, started in the Central Drive area of Creggan before making its way to the City Cemetery.
There was a colour party made up of people wearing face coverings, sunglasses and paramilitary-style dress, carrying the Irish flag and a host of republican flags.
Wreaths were laid at the republican plot at the City Cemetery and an oration was delivered.
It comes as a form was lodged with the Parades Commission for part of the Easter Monday commemoration event.
However, the form was only in relation to that part of the event at the City Cemetery and did not include a parade from Creggan shops.
The Parades Commission confirmed it had been submitted, but said the form had been lodged late. Therefore, it was not registered on the Parades Commission website.
A spokesperson for the Parades Commission said: “The Commission received a notification from the ‘Creggan Easter Committee’ for an event at Creggan cemetery on Easter Monday.
“Notifications should normally be received 28 days in advance.”
Meanwhile, the PSNI said: “Police were not passed any details from the Parades Commission about a parade in Creggan today, April 1.
“Police can confirm, however, an 11/1 was received by police on Saturday, March 30, in relation to an event in the City Cemetery this afternoon, April 1.
“Police forwarded this form to the Parades Commission for consideration.”
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