Teen arrested after slurry spread in Ballymena hours before town's first Pride parade

Sunday World

2 days ago

Police are treating the incident, which happened overnight, as a hate crime.
A teenager has been arrested after slurry was spread on the streets of Ballymena - hours before the town's first Pride parade.
Police are treating the incident, which happened overnight, as a hate crime.
The 19-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of a bladed or pointed item. He remains in custody.
Local people and businesses took part in a clean-up operation this morning.
The Pride parade is scheduled to take place this afternoon.
The clean-up operation in Ballymena today. Photo: Scott Cuthbertson/Facebook
News in 90 Seconds - June 28th
It is to start at 2pm and finish up at Greenvale Street, which is among the areas affected, an hour later.
The route takes in Waveney Road, Galgorm Road, Lower Mill Street, Wellington Street, Broughshane Street, William Street and Ballymoney Street.
An application lodged with the Parades Commission said 1,500 participants and 2,000 spectators are expected.
Organisers have said the event is an effort to celebrate "diversity, inclusion and cross-community unity.'
The slurry incident has been widely condemned today.
Scott Cuthbertson from The Rainbow Project said those responsible were 'disgusting bigots'.
'A huge thank you to the local businesses who have rallied round to clean up the mess. The lesson for these bigots – Pride goes on,' he said.
Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland said 'There is no place for this kind of disgusting and deliberate attempt to intimidate, disrupt or shame those taking part in a peaceful and joyful celebration of love, identity and community.
'I have spoken directly with the parade organisers and the PSNI, and our team has engaged with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to ensure cleansing takes place urgently and the route is made safe and welcoming for all.
'Ballymena Pride is a historic and hopeful moment for our town. No amount of hate will drown out the message of inclusion, solidarity, and pride that today represents.'
Justice Minister Naomi Long said on X: 'I despair the mentality of those who spread slurry on the streets of their town motivated by hate and bigotry. Disgusting in every sense of the word.
'Solidarity to all at Ballymena Pride. It's a frightening time but love will always triumph over hate.'
The PSNI said: 'Police in Ballymena have arrested a man after officers on patrol in the Granville Drive area observed slurry on the road at around 2.55am this morning.
'A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of a blade/point. He remains in police custody at this time.
'The matter is being treated as a hate crime and enquiries are ongoing.'