The Daily Star Ireland
A series of violent incidents across Northern Ireland has resulted in 63 police officers sustaining injuries, prompting widespread concern and condemnation. The unrest, which began in Ballymena, County Antrim, has since spread to several towns, including Portadown, Coleraine, and Larne.
The disturbances were triggered by the arrest of two 14-year-old boys in connection with an alleged sexual assault on a teenage girl in Ballymena. The use of a Romanian interpreter during their court appearance led to unfounded assumptions about the suspects’ nationality, fueling anti-immigrant sentiment. Subsequent protests escalated into riots, with masked individuals attacking police officers with petrol bombs, fireworks, and other projectiles. Homes and vehicles were set ablaze, and several properties sustained significant damage.
In Portadown, County Armagh, 22 officers were injured during a night of intense violence. Rioters launched heavy masonry and fireworks at police, who responded with public order tactics to restore calm. Additional incidents were reported in Coleraine and Newtownabbey, where fires were set and anti-immigration graffiti appeared.
Law Enforcement Response and Public Appeals
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has arrested 17 individuals in connection with the disorder, with 13 charged with criminal offenses. Authorities have released images of four persons of interest and are seeking public assistance in identifying them. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson emphasized the importance of community cooperation in bringing those responsible to justice.
To bolster policing efforts, officers from Scotland have been deployed to Northern Ireland. The PSNI has also increased its presence across affected areas to reassure communities and prevent further violence. The Northern Ireland Housing Executive reported that approximately 50 households have received assistance, with 14 families provided with emergency accommodation due to the unrest.
Political Repercussions and Community Impact
The violence has drawn criticism from political leaders. First Minister Michelle O’Neill accused DUP Communities Minister Gordon Lyons of inflaming tensions following his social media comments regarding the relocation of families to a leisure center in Larne, which was later attacked by rioters. Lyons defended his remarks, stating they were intended to dispel rumors and not incite violence.
Community leaders have expressed concern over the racially motivated nature of the attacks. Incidents, including an arson attack on a house in Coleraine that endangered a family with young children, are being treated as hate crimes. Residents have reported feeling unsafe, with some displaying signs indicating their nationality in an attempt to deter attacks.
The Police Federation for Northern Ireland condemned the violence as “a week of shame,” highlighting the bravery and professionalism of officers under attack. Chairman Liam Kelly urged parents to discourage their children from participating in further unrest and called for community support in restoring order.
