The PSNI has strongly criticised the unrest that broke out on the streets of Ballymena last night, where 15 police officers sustained injuries and one individual was taken into custody, reports RTE.
Several properties, including homes and businesses, suffered damage as windows and doors were smashed. Fires damaged four houses, prompting the evacuation of three residents.
According to police, the violence erupted after a protest in Ballymena town centre, which was linked to an alleged sexual assault case, reports RTE.
Two teenage boys appeared in court yesterday, facing charges of attempted rape.
Authorities reported that masked individuals broke away from the vigil, set up barricades, and began attacking buildings.
The attacks are currently being treated as “racially motivated hate crimes,” reports RTE.
As the situation escalated, parts of the crowd turned against police, launching petrol bombs and throwing bricks and stones.
Police described the incident as “sustained” disorder.
They said the 15 officers who were hurt are considered “walking wounded” and are now recovering, reports RTE.
Most of the injuries were caused by masonry strikes, and petrol bombs were also used during the riots.
One plastic baton round was discharged, hitting a single person.
A 29-year-old man has been detained on suspicion of participating in riotous conduct, reports RTE.
Police displayed two heavily damaged vehicles that were impacted during the violent events.
An Assistant Chief Constable confirmed the arrest and said more would follow, as investigators review video evidence, including clips shared on social media.
Officers are also looking into a reported arson incident in the nearby village of Cullybackey, reports RTE.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service stated it evacuated seven people from one of the targeted houses in Ballymena.
In Cullybackey, three people affected by a vehicle fire were handed over to ambulance crews, r r
Local TUV MP Jim Allister commented that community tensions had been rising due to immigration, noting that the violence followed a peaceful demonstration supporting the family of a girl allegedly assaulted over the weekend.
Stormont’s Justice Minister also voiced condemnation over the unrest, reports RTE.
Naomi Long expressed her shock at the attacks on officers, distress among residents, and the destruction of property, saying she was horrified by the scenes.
“There is absolutely no place in our society for such disorder and there can be no justification for it,” she said, reports RTE.
“I would appeal to those involved to seriously consider their actions and step back from this behaviour before someone is seriously injured or worse,” reports RTE.
“Attacking homes and police officers serves no purpose other than to damage communities and raise tensions,” added Ms Long. Those involved will be pursued and held accountable for their actions. I have conveyed to the PSNI my best wishes to the injured officers for a speedy recovery. I am also calling on community and political leaders and all those with influence to condemn this violence and work with the police and community to quell any further disorder or violence,” reports RTE.
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