Up to 50 young people were involved in attacks on police in south Belfast involving petrol bombs and paint, the PSNI has said.
A number of police cars as well as cars belonging to members of the public were damaged during the disorder at the Broadway Roundabout last night.
No injuries have been reported to police officers or the public.
District Commander for Belfast Chief Superintendent Jeremy Lindsay urged those involved to "seriously consider the impact of their actions".
He said the incident was "a particularly protracted period of public disorder lasting into the early hours of today".
"Petrol and paint bombs were thrown at officers and vehicles by groups of up to 50 young people," he said.
"The windscreens of three cars were shattered and splattered with paint with some damage also caused to our police vehicles," he added.
Mr Lindsay said that local officers "will continue to patrol the area tonight to prevent anti-social or disorderly behaviour and detect those involved".
"We will also continue to work alongside our partner agencies, local representatives and the community," he said.
Mr Lindsay urged young people "who have been involved and their parents or guardians to seriously consider the impact of their actions on the local community, but also on their own futures".
He said such actions have "serious consequences" and advised people to "walk away and don't get involved in any trouble".
He added: "Officers will continue to provide a visible policing presence in the area and I would encourage you to report any and all incidents of anti-social behaviour in your community.
"The more we know, the more we can do to support people and take positive action.
"You can contact on 101 or 999 in an emergency."
