Houses destroyed during serious disorder in Co Antrim, hours after boys charged with alleged sex assault of girl (14)
Briefly

In Co Antrim, violence erupted as crowds gathered in response to a reported sexual assault on a teenage girl. Initially peaceful, the gathering escalated with masked youths attacking homes, resulting in fires and severe property damage. The PSNI intervened with riot officers to restore order. Chief Superintendent Steen urged the community to avoid violence, emphasizing safety. The incident illustrates the tensions within the community and the need for calm amidst escalating unrest, highlighting the impact of criminal allegations on local neighborhoods.
At least four homes were set alight and destroyed, with flames spreading to other neighbouring properties. The disturbances followed an alleged serious sexual assault on a teenage girl.
Chief Superintendent Sue Steen appealed for locals to remain calm: 'Violence and disorder will only place people at greater risk. Our priority is to keep the community safe.'
Masked youths attacked properties in Clonavon Terrace; some attempted to set curtains alight after smashing windows. A separate arson occurred in Cullybackey.
Protesters gathered in Clonavon Terrace amid heavy police presence, leading to significant property damage and a call for motorists and pedestrians to avoid the area.
Read at Irish Independent
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