Protests turned violent in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, on Monday night after a court appearance for two 14-year-old boys charged with serious sexual assault, including attempted oral rape of a teenage girl. The Police Service of Northern Ireland reported that officers faced "sustained attack" from rioters who hurled Molotov cocktails, bricks, and fireworks at them, resulting in injuries to 15 officers, some requiring hospital treatment.
The unrest followed a planned demonstration that was initially peaceful, as crowds marched to the site of the alleged assault at Clonavon Terrace at around 7:30 p.m. on Monday. However, the situation escalated when a group of masked individuals diverted from the peaceful march, building barricades and launching projectiles at homes and businesses, with incidents being treated as racially motivated hate crimes.
The police reported that several houses and shops were vandalized, with some structures set ablaze, prompting evacuations. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson condemned the violence, urging participants to reflect on their actions and warning that such disorder only heightens risks to the community.
Amidst the chaos, a 29-year-old man was arrested on charges related to riotous behavior, and authorities are investigating a potential Molotov cocktail attack in nearby Cullybackey. This incident, following the charges against the two boys—who have denied the allegations—highlights the tension surrounding the case, with far-right groups exploiting the situation on social media.
