Press Release: Rioting Erupts in Ballymena Amid Anti-Immigrant Protests
Ballymena, Northern Ireland – A second consecutive night of violence erupted in the town of Ballymena on Tuesday, with anti-immigrant protests expanding to several additional areas. The chaos followed a demonstration regarding the alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl, resulting in attacks on homes, businesses, and vehicles in the Clonavon Terrace area, where properties were set ablaze on Monday night.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland reported that officers endured a "sustained attack" from rioters armed with petrol bombs, bricks, and fireworks, leading to injuries for 17 officers. In response to the escalating violence, police employed a water cannon and plastic baton rounds to disperse crowds, with disturbances also reported in Belfast and Carrickfergus.
The unrest originated after two boys, aged 14, were charged in connection with the serious sexual assault that occurred on Saturday. They face charges of attempted oral rape and maintain their innocence. As tensions increased, protests took shape across various areas, including Lisburn, Coleraine, and Newtownabbey.
In the aftermath of the assaults, local residents began displaying signs indicating their nationalities, as markers of identity amid the chaos—some displayed messages stating "British household," while others showcased the Philippine flag with "Filipino lives here."
Chief Constable Jon Boutcher expressed deep concern over the escalation of violence, labeling it “mindless” and urging for respect towards the judicial process. He confirmed that police are reviewing video surveillance to identify perpetrators, emphasizing the need to combat what he referred to as “hate-fueled acts and mob rule.”
In total, five individuals were arrested on suspicion of rioting, with additional arrests made for disorder-related offenses. The situation remains fluid, and updates will follow as new information unfolds.
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