Police call for calm after rioting in Ballymena
It followed a protest in the town after the alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl over the weekend
Police have called for calm after rioting broke out in Ballymena last night, with houses attacked, road blocks set on fire, and paint and masonry thrown at PSNI land-rovers.
It followed a protest in the Clonavon Terrace area of the County Antrim town after the alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl over the weekend.
Two teenage boys appeared in court earlier yesterday in connection with the alleged attack.
A police statement last night said, “A number of missiles have been thrown towards police with damage reported to a number of properties. Officers are advising motorists and pedestrians to avoid the Clonavon Road area until further notice.”
“It follows a protest in the area earlier this evening. Officers are in attendance to ensure the safety of everyone involved. They will remain in the area tonight to continue to monitor the situation.”
PSNI Chief Superintendent Sue Steen said “We are urging everyone to remain calm and to act responsibly.”
“Violence and disorder will only place people at greater risk. Our priority is to keep the community safe, and I would appeal to everyone to work with us to bring calm to the area as quickly as possible.”