Chief Constable Simon Byrne on a visit last September to Strand Road police station
Three of six murders carried out in recent weeks have been related to domestic incidents.
Speaking at a meeting of the Policing Board today, Simon Byrne said: “The level of violence appears to be extreme… it is something we are watching closely.”
Since the start of April, the PSNI has received 3,100 calls about domestic incidents – an increase in what is experienced normally.
Mr Byrne insisted police “are not taking a no arrest approach”.
He added he is concerned at the risk incidents could keep increasing in the months ahead.
The Chief Constable says he’s also concerned at recent levels of drink driving.
He has told the Policing Board there have been 494 arrests since the beginning of March – 14 of which involved the same driver.
Mr Byrne said the figures are “a cause for concern, given there are fewer cars on the road” because of lockdown measures.
He added that some of those involved were displaying “a devil may care attitude”.
