In response, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) fired baton rounds, used water cannons, and deployed riot control dogs to disperse the crowds. Officers had previously issued warnings over loudspeakers, urging people to leave the area before taking further action.
A car was set ablaze, and burning barricades blocked several roads. The PSNI has urged the public to avoid the area due to ongoing safety risks. Monday’s violence followed a peaceful protest earlier in the day over an alleged sexual assault involving a teenage girl. By nightfall, tensions escalated.
Homes were attacked, six in total, with four damaged by fire. Several local businesses also suffered damage, with windows and doors smashed in the chaos. One family with three young children reportedly had to barricade themselves in their attic for safety, according to Assembly Member Sian Mulholland.
So far, a 29-year-old man has been charged with a range of offenses, including riotous behavior, attempted criminal damage, and resisting police. Meanwhile, two teenage boys appeared in Coleraine Magistrates’ Court earlier this week in connection with the alleged assault. Speaking through a Romanian interpreter, they confirmed their identities and denied the charges. A third man arrested Monday night was later released unconditionally.
The Prime Minister’s office described the events in Ballymena as “very concerning,” as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
