Ballymena has been rocked by two nights of violent protests, initially following a peaceful demonstration in support of a young sexual assault victim. Rioters targeted police with glass bottles and metal objects, leading to injuries among officers. The PSNI has implemented significant measures to maintain order, including the use of a water cannon and less-than-lethal ammunition. Police condemned the violence as "racist thuggery" and are actively pursuing those responsible, with several arrests already made and more expected as investigations continue.
The scenes of violence in Ballymena which left 15 police injured on Monday were described as "racist thuggery" by a senior officer.
Police Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson emphasized the ongoing efforts to "identify those responsible for last night's racially motivated disorder in Ballymena and bring them to justice."
The police deployed less-than-lethal rounds and a water cannon to manage the crowd after objects were thrown during protests surrounding allegations of a sexual assault.
A 29-year-old man has been charged with riotous behavior, and police anticipate further arrests following the violent incidents on Monday.
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