Local politicians have said there was a night of 'terror and mayhem' in parts of Derry last night.

Dee Quigley, an independent councillor on the new Derry City and District Council, said two men entered his cousin's house in Galliagh last night.

He claimed that the men threatened the woman and her five year-old son before stealing their car.

The car was later abandoned at Madamsbank Road.

Meanwhile, SDLP Assemblyman Pat Ramsey said two masked men also tried to hijack a car in Shantallow last night.

However, the driver of the car refused to hand over the vehicle.

There were also reports of further incidents in the Shantallow and Galliagh areas last night.

Police this morning said three men aged 18, 22 and 23 have been arrested following reports of a number of attempted hijackings, burglaries and other related offences in the Rossnagaliagh area of Derry yesterday.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "One male was described as having a firearm whilst attempting to hijack vehicles.

"Two vehicles were stolen, one of which collided with a police vehicle in the Carnhill area of the City.

"There are no reports of any shots having been fired during the incidents."

Area Commander Chief Inspector Tony Callaghan appealed for anyone who witnessed any of the incidents or anyone with any information to contact CID in Strand Road Police Station on the non-emergency number 101.

Or if you prefer to provide information without giving your details you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.