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Violence

Violent Disorder Erupts in Ballymena Over Alleged Sexual Assault

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Violent disorder has erupted for a second consecutive night in Ballymena, with riot police using water cannons and plastic baton rounds to disperse protesters. The unrest began after an alleged sexual assault on a young girl, and peaceful protests turned violent, with police and ethnic minorities being targeted. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has condemned the disorder as "racist thuggery" and has vowed to bring those responsible to justice. The Northern Ireland Secretary has also condemned the attacks on police officers and vandalism, stating that there is "no justification" for such behavior.

Key Takeaways:

  • Riot police used water cannons and plastic baton rounds to disperse protesters, with some residents being injured and properties damaged.
  • The unrest began after an alleged sexual assault on a young girl, with a peaceful protest turning violent.
  • Police and ethnic minorities were targeted by rioters, with some masked protesters shouting abuse and throwing objects at police.
  • A 29-year-old man was charged with riotous behavior after being arrested on Monday night.
  • A 28-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday evening in connection with the incident and has been released from police custody.
  • The Prime Minister's official spokesman described the disorder as "very concerning" and stated that there is no justification for attacks on police officers.
  • The Northern Ireland Secretary has said that there will be a significant policing operation in Ballymena in the coming days to reassure the community.
  • Police officers from England and Wales will be brought to Northern Ireland if needed to help the PSNI in the wake of the Ballymena disorder.

Statistics:

  • 15 police officers were injured during Monday's disorder.
  • Several PSNI vehicles were damaged.
  • A property on Bridge Street and a home on Queen Street were set on fire.
  • Multiple cars were set ablaze, including near a car wash and tyre centre off Bridge Street and on Larne Street.
  • At least one participant had their clothing catch fire during the disorder.

Sources:

  • "Riot police use water cannon as hundreds gather amid second night of unrest in Ballymena" by Cillian Sherlock, David Young, and Jonathan McCambridge, PA (News Letter, 2023-06-13)
  • https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/crime/riot-police-use-water-cannon-as-hundreds-gather-amid-second-night-of-unrest-in-ballymena-5171026

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