Disorder after alleged sex assault ‘unwarranted’, says Jim Allister

Disorder in Ballymena following a protest over an alleged sexual assault in the town has been described as “unwanted and unwarranted” by the area’s MP.

People wearing masks threw masonry and other missiles at police, while houses were set on fire.

Police officers blocked off Clonavon Terrace as they tried to tackle the unrest, while a police car appeared to have its windows smashed.

Jim Allister, leader of the Traditional Unionist Voice, said the violence was “very distressing”.

The North Antrim MP said the “context” for the demonstration was that there had been “significant demographic change in the area” because of “unfettered immigration”.

Earlier on Monday, two teenage boys appeared before Coleraine Magistrates’ Court accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl in Ballymena.

They spoke through an interpreter in Romanian to confirm their names and ages.

Their solicitor said they would be denying the charges.

Hundreds of people took part in a peaceful march hours after the court appearance.

The crowd of men, women and children gathered close to the town centre and walked along Larne Street and then Queen Street.

Violence broke out later in the day.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said a number of missiles were thrown at its officers and “damage had reported to a number of properties”.

Police have advised motorists and pedestrians to avoid Clonavon Road until further notice.

Ch Supt Sue Steen said: “We are urging everyone to remain calm and to act responsibly. Violence and disorder will only place people at greater risk”.