Violent unrest erupted in a Northern Irish town for a second consecutive night, marked by attacks on police. Protesters hurled petrol bombs, bricks, and fireworks at officers. Houses, cars, a car wash, and a tire center were set ablaze. Police responded with plastic baton rounds and water cannons to disperse the crowds.
The initial outbreak of violence occurred on Monday following an alleged sexual assault on a girl in the area. Ethnic minorities appeared to be targeted during the two nights of disorder, prompting some residents to display signs indicating their nationalities in their windows. A senior police officer condemned the events as "racist thuggery."
On Monday night, the unrest centered around Clonavon Terrace, where several homes suffered damage, including broken windows and smoke damage. Fifteen police officers were injured, and several police vehicles were targeted. The following night, trouble continued in the Clonavon Terrace, North Road, and Bridge Street areas, with masked protesters attacking police with fireworks, glass bottles, and metal objects.
Hundreds of people gathered, and officers in riot gear fired plastic baton rounds. Water cannons were also deployed. Seventeen police officers were injured during the second night. Five individuals were arrested on suspicion of riotous behavior. As rioters dispersed, a property on Bridge Street and a home on Queen Street were set on fire. Multiple cars were also set alight. Calm was restored by the early hours of Wednesday.
The unrest began after a peaceful protest on Monday, organized in support of the family of the alleged sexual assault victim. Two 14-year-old boys have appeared in court, charged with attempted rape. A third arrest was made on Monday night.
Ballymena, a town with a population of 30,000, is located near Belfast. The town, usually described as a shopping destination, resembled a war zone during the recent events. Residents displayed signs indicating the nationalities of those living in their homes.
In addition to Ballymena, there were also reports of "sporadic disorder" in Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus. In Carrickfergus, bins were set alight, and bottles and bricks were thrown at police. In Newtownabbey, bins were set alight at a roundabout.
The Prime Minister's official spokesman expressed concern over the unrest, stating that there was no justification for attacks on police officers. The Northern Ireland Secretary also condemned the attacks and vandalism. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson issued a public appeal for information and stated that the police were working to identify those responsible for the "racially motivated disorder."
A heavy police presence remains in Ballymena. Police officers from England and Wales may be brought in to assist the PSNI. A 29-year-old man was charged with riotous behavior after being arrested on Monday night. Five other people remain in police custody as investigations continue.
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