Protests in Ballymena turned violent on Monday night after a demonstration regarding the court case of two 14-year-old boys charged with the sexual assault of a teenage girl. The Police Service of Northern Ireland reported that 15 officers sustained injuries during the riot, which involved attacks on properties, including homes and businesses, that are suspected to be racially motivated.
The unrest began after a peaceful gathering at around 7:30 p.m. near Clonavon Terrace, where the alleged crime took place. While the initial protestors marched calmly, a faction of masked individuals broke away, erecting barricades and launching attacks using Molotov cocktails, fireworks, and heavy objects against the police as they attempted to maintain order.
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson criticized the violence, stating, “The shocking scenes of disorder on the streets of Ballymena have to be condemned in the strongest terms,” urging those involved to reflect on the dangers of such actions.
In addition, a 29-year-old man was detained for his involvement in the riots. The police are further investigating a related Molotov cocktail attack in nearby Cullybackey, where a vehicle was burned and property damage occurred while the occupants, including children, were inside. Investigators are treating this incident as a hate crime.
Community leaders and social media influencers have heightened tensions, further complicating the situation. As authorities continue their investigations, the atmosphere in Ballymena remains fragile amidst the aftermath of these violent protests.
