Ballymena Riots Escalate: Police Face Petrol Bombs in Night of Unrest
Violent unrest erupted for a second consecutive night in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, as crowds hurled petrol bombs, fireworks, and debris at police officers, prompting the use of baton rounds, water cannon, and riot dogs to restore order.
The violence, which ignited after a peaceful protest over an alleged sexual assault, intensified near Clonavon Terrace, where groups of rioters torched vehicles, smashed windows, and damaged businesses and homes. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) described the attacks as “racist thuggery”, noting homes were deliberately targeted, and two were set alight.
The unrest followed Monday’s protest, held after two Romanian teenage boys appeared in court, accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl. A third man arrested on related charges was later released. The suspects denied the allegations through interpreters.
Tuesday night’s confrontation began around 8pm and lasted until early Wednesday morning. PSNI confirmed isolated outbreaks of violence also occurred in Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus, and north Belfast.
As the smoke cleared, homes displayed signs reading “British household” or “Filipino lives here,” a clear indicator of fear and rising xenophobia among foreign-born residents. Some families reportedly barricaded themselves in attics to avoid attacks.
A 29-year-old man was charged in connection with Monday’s riots, facing multiple offences including riotous behavior and resisting police.
Politicians across the spectrum condemned the violence. DUP MLA Paul Frew warned that someone could be killed if tensions continue, emphasizing that the disorder is overshadowing the gravity of the alleged sexual assault.
Traditional Unionist Voice leader Jim Allister linked the unrest to what he described as “unfettered immigration,” sparking backlash from fellow politicians who accused him of fanning the flames of hate.
SDLP MP Claire Hanna criticized Allister’s comments as “weaselly” and accused some leaders of using inflammatory language instead of working to resolve tensions. Northern Ireland Justice Minister Naomi Long expressed horror at the events, while Sinn Féin’s Philip McGuigan called for calm and responsible leadership.
As Ballymena wakes to scorched roads and shattered glass, cleanup operations are underway, but residents remain shaken. Authorities continue to urge restraint, warning those involved to “reflect long and hard about their actions” and avoid further criminalization of local youth.
With Northern Ireland still grappling with the legacy of past conflict, the recent outbreaks in Ballymena have reignited concerns about the fragility of social cohesion and the growing risks of racially motivated unrest.
