Fifteen police officers have been injured during a severe outbreak of disorder in Ballymena, Northern Ireland. Justice Minister Naomi Long condemned the violence, which is being treated as racially motivated hate crimes by the police.

Following the disruption in Co Antrim town, attacks on Clonavon Terrace resulted in six homes having their windows smashed, with two houses suffering significant fire damage. A Romanian mother of three living in one of the targeted houses expressed fear for her safety and her children's well-being.

Local MP Jim Allister highlighted growing tensions in Ballymena related to immigration, with violence following a peaceful protest in support of a girl allegedly assaulted over the weekend. Two 14-year-old boys appeared in court charged with attempted rape, with the charges read to them by a Romanian interpreter.

During the disorder, masked individuals broke away from a planned vigil, building barricades, attacking properties, and hurling petrol bombs and masonry at police officers. Fifteen officers were injured, some requiring hospital treatment, and two police vehicles were damaged.

A 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of riotous behavior, attempted criminal damage, and resisting police. Police are also investigating a report of arson in the Tobar Park area of Cullybackey.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson condemned the violence as racially motivated and pledged to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. He emphasized the need for a significant police presence to protect the affected communities in Ballymena and prevent further disorder.

Footage from the incident showed protesters burning road barriers and bins, throwing missiles at police vehicles, and targeting houses by smashing windows. TUV leader Mr. Allister urged calm, distinguishing between the peaceful protest and the subsequent violence.

Justice Minister Long called the disorder appalling, emphasizing that there is no justification for such actions. She appealed to those involved to reconsider their behavior and condemned the attacks on homes and police officers.

Chief Superintendent Sue Steen urged calm and responsible behavior, emphasizing that violence and disorder only increase risks to the community. The PSNI asked for information from the public to assist in their investigations.