Tensions flared in Ballymena on Monday evening as public disorder broke out near the scene of an alleged sexual assault, leading to property damage and attacks on police officers.
According to a statement from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), crowds gathered on Clonavon Road following a protest connected to the recent charging of two teenage boys in relation to a serious sexual assault on a teenage girl. The alleged incident occurred on Clonavon Terrace, a residential street in the town, which lies roughly 30 minutes north of Belfast.
As night fell, the protest devolved into violence. Missiles and masonry were reportedly hurled at police officers, and at least one police vehicle sustained damage, its windows shattered in the chaos. Individuals with their faces masked were seen among the disorderly crowd, according to local media.
Police confirmed that damage had been done to multiple properties in the area. Officers have since established a continued presence on Clonavon Road, urging the public to stay away while they work to restore order.
Chief Superintendent Sue Steen issued a public plea for calm:
“We are urging everyone to remain calm and to act responsibly. Violence and disorder will only place people at greater risk. Our priority is to keep the community safe, and I would appeal to everyone to work with us to bring calm to the area as quickly as possible.”
The unrest was sparked after news broke over the weekend that two teenage boys had been charged in connection with a serious sexual assault on a teenage girl. The PSNI confirmed the charges in a statement on Sunday.
The charged individuals have already appeared in court, prompting the protest and subsequent unrest. The community, clearly shaken by the alleged crime, is now grappling with the fallout of both the incident itself and the violent response that followed.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and investigations are ongoing.
