Four arrests made after car torched as disorder spreads to other areas of NI on second night of Ballymena violence
A further 17 police officers were injured following attacks by what has been called 'a baying mob with fireworks, masonry and petrol bombs'. None of those officers were hospitalised but it brings the number of injured officers across two nights of violence to 33.
Liam Kelly, chair of the Police Federation for NI, said: "I want to condemn again what has happened the last couple of nights not only in Ballymena but, as we've seen, extended into other areas as well. It's completely deplorable that this is happening. We need these attacks to stop, and stop very quickly.'
Calm was restored to the Ballymena area after 1am. Disorder broke out shortly before 8pm and continued for several hours with masonry and petrol bombs thrown at police officers and police vehicles.
A number of homes and businesses were also attacked.
During the disorder, a water cannon was deployed in an attempt to disperse the crowds, with officers also discharging a number of baton rounds.
Around 300 protestors had gathered in the area, close to where an alleged serious sexual assault on a teenage girl took place.
Police also dealt with sporadic disorder in Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus while a car was set alight in north Belfast.
Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster's Good Morning Ulster Programme, Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland described the incident as 'unacceptable'.
'It's deeply shocking and very disappointing and I have to say it's entirely unacceptable. This violence doesn't speak for Ballymena,' she said.
Mulholland said that the unrest distracted from the 'really serious issue' of violence against women and girls.
She added: 'That's what we should be talking about, we should be talking about how to make our society safer for women, not how to manage the fallout of violence and intimidation.
"It was just really disturbing, and deeply, deeply worrying.'
Police in Newtownabbey said last night: 'Following a protest at Cloughfern, colleagues are aware of a group of young people who appear intent on engaging in some form of disorder.
"So that we can avoid any allegation that we target local young people and attempt to criminalise them, I would ask for some assistance from friends, family or anyone with influence to help us protect these young people by diverting them away from the area and help us dispose of the fireworks to which they have gained access.'
Translink suspended bus services in several areas of Belfast due to protests.
Services on the Shore Road in north Belfast were at a standstill due to protestors blocking roadways along bus routes.
Bus services along the Ravenhill Road between the east and south of the city were also diverted towards the Ormeau Embankment due to demonstrations, while there was disruption to services in the Shankill Road area.
Protestors had also blocked roads at Carlisle Circus.
It's understood a crowd of around 50 gathered at the area holding placards saying: 'Protect Our Children.'
Police will release a further update later this morning.
In Ballymena, some residents marked doors to display their nationality while two water cannons were also at the scene of the ongoing 'serious disorder.'
At least four armoured vehicles were deployed in the Clonavon area as masked youths attacked officers.
Some Filipino workers in the area began putting stickers on their doors that declared their nationality, in an apparent bid to avoid attack.
Some people also displayed Union flags, or hung them in windows.
Petrol bombs, bricks and bottles were among the missiles thrown at police.
A PSNI spokesperson last night said the incident escalated to 'serious disorder'.
'Police are currently dealing with serious disorder in the Clonavon Terrace area of Ballymena this evening,' they said.
"Members of the public should avoid the area.'
A peaceful vigil on Monday to support the girl and her family was followed by serious trouble.
Two boys, both 14, were arrested and later charged with the attempted oral rape of the girl on June 7.
The charges were read to the teenagers by a Romanian interpreter.
Monday evening's violence resulted in 15 police officers suffering injuries with four homes in the area being set alight.
A 29-year-old man has been charged with riotous behaviour after being arrested during the disorder in Ballymena on Monday night
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Belfast Telegraph
19 hours ago
- Belfast Telegraph
‘Unprecedented' number of families feel unsafe after four nights of violence that left 63 officers injured
Chair of Police Federation says 63 officers injured in 'week of shame' Liam Kelly, Chair of the Police Federation for Northern Ireland, says 63 officers have been injured during what he calls a 'week of shame' with appalling levels of unrest in towns and cities. Mr Kelly said: "Yet again, our overstretched police officers have also been attacked with petrol bombs, bricks and fireworks as they sought to keep people safe and maintain law and order." Mr Kelly said that since violence erupted officers "have held the line with great courage and professionalism and are owed a debt of gratitude by this community". "They went to the aid of vulnerable people, have prevented further savage attacks and have undoubtedly saved lives," he continued. Mr Kelly wished the 63 injured officers a "speedy recovery" and called for attacks on officers to stop. 'This has been a week of shame with hate-filled rioters turning our streets into battle zones targeting people and property simply because of their perceived nationality or the colour of their skin," he added. 'They didn't care who they hurt. Fathers, mothers and young children were their targets. They have damaged Northern Ireland's image and done an enormous disservice to all of us." Mr Kelly said additional resources have been secured under Mutual Aid and that officers will continue to police "our society without fear or favour and all persons". 'As we head into the weekend, I would once again appeal for calm," he said. "Bringing violence, fear and uncertainty to our streets is totally unacceptable and must stop. 'I would ask all parents to speak with their children, know where they are going in the evenings, and actively encourage them to be civically responsible. " DUP MP expresses concerns over 'policing operation' in Portadown DUP MP Carla Lockhart has expressed her "very real concerns" over how the "policing operation" was carried out in Portadown on Thursday night and has requested a meeting with local policing commanders. Ms Lockhart posted on Facebook on Friday urging people to "keep calm heads" and said "violence is not the answer". "The hypocrisy of those with convictions for serious crimes and acts of terrorism, or who celebrate those who committed these acts of terror, now attempting to lecture others on right and wrong is not lost on the wider community, and is certainly not helpful," she said. "There are very real concerns about how last night's policing operation was carried out. "Having been on the ground last night, I have requested an urgent meeting with the local police commanders to raise these concerns directly. "There must be accountability and a clear understanding of how this situation unfolded, so that future policing operations are proportionate, responsible, and respectful of the communities they affect. "I do understand that policing on occasions has to react to what is unfolding and my thoughts are with the officers on the ground, who bear the brunt of this and are simply following orders, some whom were injured carrying out their duties. "Violence and attacks on the police are not the way forward." Today 10:03 AM Violence in Portadown deplorable and unacceptable, says MLA Alliance Upper Bann MLA Eóin Tennyson has said those who engaged in violence in Portadown overnight do not represent the vast majority of people in the town. Officers came under attack with heavy masonry, fireworks and beer kegs in the area last night. A police spokesperson said 22 officers were injured and two people were arrested. 'Whilst the violence in Portadown was on a smaller scale than that witnessed in other parts of Northern Ireland, it was no less deplorable and unacceptable,' said the Alliance Deputy Leader. 'Those responsible for this racist thuggery do not speak for the majority of people in our community. 'No family should ever have to leave their home out of fear for their own safety. My solidarity and support is with our migrant and ethnic minority communities at what I know is an incredibly worrying time. 'I am grateful to the PSNI for their strong response and my thoughts are with the officers who were injured in the course of their duties. 'There is no place for racism, hate or division in Portadown or anywhere else in Northern Ireland. "All those in positions of leadership and responsibility must now use any influence they can to ensure we do not see a repeat of these scenes again." Today 09:58 AM 'Unprecedented number of families feel unsafe in their home' says NI Housing Executive chief The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) has said that around 50 households in Northern Ireland have received assistance after rioting broke out in Ballymena earlier this week. Around 14 families have also been provided with emergency accommodation. On Thursday night a family with young children had to be evacuated from their home in Coleraine following a fire. The PSNI are treating the fire as a racially-motivated hate crime. NIHE chief executive, Grainia Long, said she expects the number of people seeking help to rise. Speaking to the BBC's Good Morning Ulster programme, Ms Long described the last week as "extraordinary", saying there is an "unprecedented number of families locally who feel it is unsafe to stay in their home". "Demand is extremely high, and it has been one of those weeks where everyone has had to move very quickly to respond. "We do expect the numbers to increase as households make decisions about what is safe for them." She added that NIHE staff "have been out on the ground, supporting communities, working within them and ensuring their safety", as well as "working with older people who are scared and asking questions about their safety". Health Minister Mike Nesbitt: 'without our international colleagues, the health service would collapse' Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has condemned the recent racist violence and said that it has left international colleagues working throughout the Health & Social Care system in Northern Ireland "frightened and vulnerable". 'It is well accepted within Health and Social Care that without our international colleagues, the health service would collapse," he said. 'The international recruits who arrive to work here across our HSC system provide an immensely valuable contribution to the delivery of health and social care services and enrich our communities with their diversity. 'Since taking up the post of Health Minister last year, I have had the privilege of meeting healthcare staff right across Northern Ireland, including many of our internationally recruited colleagues who have brought their skills, experience and expertise to our health service. They are greatly needed, very much appreciated and highly valued. They are deeply welcome here and their health, safety and wellbeing are of paramount importance. 'People should be entitled to live in peace, free from harm and intimidation, and I stand against this reprehensible, racist and xenophobic behaviour.' Today 09:16 AM 'Emergency rally against racist riots' to be held tomorrow in Belfast The event has been called by United Against Racism (UAR)and will take place at 12pm at Belfast City Hall. Speaking ahead of the rally, UAR Chair Ivanka Antova said: "The racist riots we have witnessed have spread fear across our communities and posed a direct threat to the life of migrants. "United Against Racism will not stand by while far-right agitators whip up such violence. We know that the vast majority of people are anti-racist and abhor racist hatred. "We are calling on those people, on the trade unions who represent a growing migrant workforce, and all progressive forces to join us to send a clear and resolute message against racism and racist violence." Today 08:57 AM Church of Ireland leader says damage from unrest 'cannot simply be swept away' Church of Ireland Archbishop John McDowell said that the recent disorder in towns across the region are "a source of great shame for Northern Ireland." "Hiding behind the figment of 'legitimate concerns' but in fact motivated by crude racism, groups of young men (and the shadowy and unaccountable people who control them) planned and carried out attacks on civil society and on democracy. The damage they have caused is not just material; it cannot be simply swept away," he said. "We should put ourselves in the shoes of someone trapped inside a house or a hostel while an angry mob gathers outside. It must be utterly terrifying. Imagine the lasting impact of such terror on a child. "The people who are the target of such squalid protests have come to this country to make a new life and to make a living. Just as we would rightly refuse to be judged by the criminal actions of any individual who happens to be from the same nationality or ethnicity as us, so we should question those who do so of others." Today 08:26 AM The PSNI has condemned a fourth consecutive night of disorder - with more arrests and officers injured. In a statement the PSNI said there was "significant disorder and violence in Portadown over a number of hours" with officers coming under sustained attack with heavy masonry and fireworks thrown in their direction. Twenty-two officers were injured. They said officers used various public order tactics and there were no reports of injury to the public or damage to property. Two arrests were made in Portadown – a woman in her 50s and a man in his 30s - on suspicion of riotous behaviour and other offences in connection with the disorder. The PSNI said there was protests reported in Belfast – these were mainly peaceful – with travel disrupted in the Templemore Avenue area of east Belfast for a short time. Bricks were thrown through the windows of two houses in the Avoniel Road in a racially-motivated attack. There was a protest at Carrick roundabout and a small fire at the Manse Road roundabout in Newtownabbey. With reports of anti-immigration hate graffiti being investigated in Newtownards. Police said a house fire in the Mount Street area of Coleraine is being treated as deliberate and a racially-motivated hate crime. A family with three young children were evacuated from this property. Meanwhile, Ballymena "did not witness the disgraceful scenes of rioting as previous nights". Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: 'Last night in Portadown police came under sustained attack from rioters throwing masonry and other missiles. Officers deployed a variety of public order tactics to restore order to the town as quickly as possible. 'Twenty-two officers were injured and I am so grateful to them for their bravery and selfless dedication in protecting the community of Portadown from this criminality. 'We saw calm in Ballymena and I hope the powerful words of the family who asked for calm during this really difficult time were heard and continue to be heard over the coming days. 'Two arrests were made in Portadown last night and more will follow. "I repeat, once more, our appeal for calm across Northern Ireland in the coming days." Photos and footage, including CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage, can be shared with police through the Major Incident Public Portal at Today 08:17 AM Nigel Farage weighs in on 'ugly' unrest in Ballymena The Reform UK leader said the riots in Ballymena were 'ugly', but claimed his warnings about immigration had been ignored. Speaking on GB News, Mr Farage said: 'The Ballymena riots. They are ugly. Houses being torched, people actually putting in their windows what their identity is. 'No-one on this channel will condone in any way at all what has taken place. 'However angry you are, why on earth would you destroy what actually looks like a rather modern, well-built community asset? It's just insanity.' But the Clacton MP claimed that unrest could have been avoided if his warnings on immigration had been taken seriously. 'I said, 'Be careful. Get immigration numbers substantially lower. Don't allow people who come illegally to stay,' he said. Today 08:12 AM TUV MLA claims Ballymena violence was due to 'people's concerns not being listened to' TUV MLA Timothy Gaston said that the reasons behind the recent violence in Ballymena this week was due to people 'not being listened to' over issues on immigration. 'What we've seen over the past number of nights on our streets has been deplorable, but this was always going to happen, simply because people's concerns have not been listened to these past number of years,' he said on the BBC's Good Morning Ulster. 'There is an undercurrent here within the community where the community feels it hasn't been listened to, and that has been allowed to fester and sadly it has manifested itself in the scenes we have seen over the last number of days, and that is disappointing.' Alliance MLA Eoin Tennyson hit back at Mr Gaston's claims and said: 'You cannot contextualise or explain away what has happened, what has been wanton racist violence. 'The people who have engaged in violence are racist thugs, no ifs, no buts, and I think it's time we see leadership in all political parties in calling that out rather than trying to conflate what are two very distinct and separate issues.' Today 08:02 AM Portadown: 'Children are frightened they might be killed' Alliance MLA Eoin Tennyson said that children were telling their teachers in school that they were afraid they would be killed. Speaking on Friday's BBC Good Morning Ulster, he said that, although he is 'relieved' the violence in Portadown on Thursday night was on a smaller scale than what was seen in Ballymena, it was still 'deplorable'. 'I'm also deeply concerned at most of the racist sentiment surrounding those protesting,' he said. 'Just because the violence was on a smaller scale doesn't diminish the impact that I know this event has had on our ethnic and minority community in Portadown. 'Many people felt that they had no option but to leave their homes for their own safety. 'Speaking to a local school, children were going in talking to their teachers about how scared they were and how they were frightened they might be killed or burnt out of their homes. 'That carries a huge psychological impact to primary school age children.' Today 07:47 AM Doug Beattie: 'This was about anarchy' Former UUP leader Doug Beattie said that the recent rioting in Portadown, where police came under attack for a fourth night, was 'not about safeguarding women'. Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster's Good Morning Ulster on Friday, Mr Beattie said: : 'None of this was about safeguarding women and girls in our society, this was about disorder, this was about anarchy, this was about people having a go at the police. 'Without a doubt there are people hellbent on using this to attack the police and it has to stop.'
Belfast Telegraph
a day ago
- Belfast Telegraph
Nigel Farage weighs in on ‘ugly' unrest in Ballymena while police come under attack in Portadown
live | Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has weighed in on the unrest in Ballymena, as police came under attack for a fourth consecutive night and disorder spread across several towns in Northern Ireland. The Reform UK leader said the riots in Ballymena were 'ugly', but claimed his warnings about immigration had been ignored. Missiles were thrown at officers after a protest in Portadown on Thursday, continuing a trend that was sparked earlier in the week in Ballymena. It came after Northern Ireland's police chief warned 'bigots and racists' behind earlier nights of unrest in the region that his officers will be coming after them. PSNI chief warns rioters 'we will arrest you' Forty-one officers have been injured in the unrest, which had resulted in 15 arrests by Thursday evening. Jon Boutcher said a young girl who was the victim of an alleged sexual assault in Ballymena at the weekend, an incident that triggered protests that descended into violence in the Co Antrim town, had been 'further traumatised' by the rioting since Monday. Just now Portadown: 'Children are frightened they might be killed' Alliance MLA Eoin Tennyson said that children were telling their teachers in school that they were afraid they would be killed. Speaking on Friday's BBC Good Morning Ulster, he said that, although he is 'relieved' the violence in Portadown on Thursday night was on a smaller scale than what was seen in Ballymena, it was still 'deplorable'. 'I'm also deeply concerned at most of the racist sentiment surrounding those protesting,' he said. 'Just because the violence was on a smaller scale doesn't diminish the impact that I know this event has had on our ethnic and minority community in Portadown. 'Many people felt that they had no option but to leave their homes for their own safety. 'Speaking to a local school, children were going in talking to their teachers about how scared they were and how they were frightened they might be killed or burnt out of their homes. 'That carries a huge psychological impact to primary school age children.' 15 minutes ago Doug Beattie: 'This was about anarchy' Former UUP leader Doug Beattie said that the recent rioting in Portadown, where police came under attack for a fourth night, was 'not about safeguarding women'. Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster's Good Morning Ulster on Friday, Mr Beattie said: : 'None of this was about safeguarding women and girls in our society, this was about disorder, this was about anarchy, this was about people having a go at the police. 'Without a doubt there are people hellbent on using this to attack the police and it has to stop.'
Belfast Telegraph
2 days ago
- Belfast Telegraph
Residents urged to leave homes ahead of planned protest while Gavin Robinson rejects loyalism claim
live | Deputy mayor calls for calm ahead of planned protest in PortadownMLA Danny Donaldson recalls moment of Larne Leisure Centre attackThree in court over Ballymena disorder DUP leader Gavin Robinson has rejected a suggestion that 'loyalism has a particular problem with racist radicalisation'. The MP for Belfast East told BBC NI's Talkback programme that he was calling for the disorder to stop, after three nights of violence. He said: 'What I know is that the police have indicated that they cannot stand over the view that there is paramilitary involvement and they do not see there is paramilitary involvement and there is continual quest to put labels on things which aren't necessarily going to help.' His comments come after Arbour Housing in Portadown sent a letter to its residents advising them to 'stay with family or friends' during a planned demonstration which it says is "directed towards migrants, foreign nationals, and what are perceived as deviant behaviour". Alliance Deputy Mayor Jessica Johnston has called for calm across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council area. Police deal with a third night of violence in Ballymena Meanwhile, Alliance MLA Danny Donnelly described being inside Larne Leisure Centre during Wednesday evening's attack as 'frightening'. 4 minutes ago PSNI 'struggling to respond to serious disorder' due to under-resourcing, warns UUP MLA Policing Board Member and Ulster Unionist MLA, Alan Chambers, has warned that the Police Service of Northern Ireland is now so under pressure that it is struggling to respond to serious disorder and the everyday crime impacting communities across Northern Ireland. Mr Chambers said: 'The Police Service of Northern Ireland is an exceptional service that is admired and utilised across the UK. Just last week, its officers were training colleagues from Police Scotland in public order and riot control. Yet here we are again, with PSNI officers facing violent disorder on our streets. Our professional and courageous officers are being injured and pulled off the front line, adding to the pressure on a force already stretched to breaking point. 'This is the result of years of under-resourcing by the Department of Justice. The PSNI has been so hollowed out that it is struggling to respond to sustained unrest and deal with everyday crime. It speaks volumes that officers from Police Scotland are being brought in to make up the numbers. 'Right across Northern Ireland, people are reporting burglaries, antisocial behaviour, and other crimes, with response times not at the level they should be. That's not the fault of our police officers, but rather the result of a service that doesn't have enough boots on the ground due to under-resourcing by the Department of Justice. 'The Finance Minister needs to follow the same approach he took with health and ring fence part of the Justice budget for policing, especially to support recruitment, and the Justice Minister also needs to stop dodging responsibility. Making sure we have a properly resourced police service isn't an operational matter; it's a strategic duty that requires urgent attention.' 'If further evidence were needed, the stark warnings below from the Chief Constable and echoed by the Police Federation speak for themselves: 'Since 2010, the PSNI has been critically underfunded. This neglect takes no account of the enormous demands placed on us by legacy issues or the unique challenges of policing in a post-conflict society. Our resourcing levels are not just inadequate- they are dangerous.' 54 minutes ago DUP leader Gavin Robinson doesn't accept 'loyalism has a particular problem with racist radicalisation' On BBC NI's Talkback, Mr Robinson rejected claims that sections of loyalism have a problem with racist radicalisation, saying he would 'not categorise it that way.' Mr Robinson said: "I think there are issues around immigration clearly, within our communities, and I think that there has been as you have heard over the last number of days, repeated issues about certain areas in which some of the tensions are more pronounced." Mr Robinson said he would only "speak through fact" and called for the disorder to stop. "I will speak about what I know and I will not delve into assumptions that I cannot stand over, and I don't think it is helpful to do that in this situation. What I am saying very clearly is that there is disorder on our streets and it needs to stop," he said. "That disorder is concentrated in certain areas, and it needs to stop. It has the danger of spreading, it has the danger of risking life, we already have a situation where it is definitely risking property, people are vulnerable and people are under attack and they are having to seek refuge, it needs to stop. "Whether you think it is useful to have this conversation is one thing, what I am saying is that I will speak over what I know and what I know is that the police have indicated that they cannot stand over the view that there is paramilitary involvement and they do not see there is paramilitary involvement and there is continual quest to put labels on things which aren't necessarily going to help." Today 01:22 PM Downing Street condemned the 'disgraceful' attack on the leisure centre in Larne A No 10 spokesman said: 'As the Prime Minister said yesterday, he utterly condemns the ongoing violence seen in parts of Northern Ireland. The PSNI have our full support in continuing to restore order, to keep the peace and keep people safe. 'His thoughts are with communities and people impacted by the disgraceful scenes at the Larne leisure centre, and it's absolutely vital that the PSNI officers and emergency service workers are allowed to respond without facing mindless attacks.' Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn met PSNI's chief constable and officers on Thursday morning, No 10 said. Today 01:20 PM Irish premier Micheal Martin has said he is 'horrified' by violence in Co Antrim The Taoiseach said the riots were 'regressive' and 'backward'. 'I'm genuinely very saddened and horrified by what's happening, that people should be attacked in such a manner, that such violence should manifest itself in the way it has,' he said speaking in Dundalk. 'It's a sad day, and I would appeal to all involved to desist, to back off, to allow people to live in peace and in harmony, irrespective of creed or colour and race and ethnicity and so on. 'We are a multicultural world, and this is a regressive, sort of backward approach, that level of hostility that we haven't experienced for some time. 'We will support the PSNI and support all right-thinking people in both condemning the violence, but also doing everything we possibly can to bring calm back to the situation.' Today 01:17 PM Olympic swimmer Conor Ferguson 'sad to see club pool destroyed by thugs' Larne Leisure Centre was the target of an attack on Wednesday night. Posting on social media platform X, the Larne Swimming Club member said: "Really sad to see my home club pool being destroyed by thugs. Even more upsetting to hear this was happening during children's swimming lessons. "Acts like this don't just damage property, they damage NI communities. "Sending support to all those affected." Today 01:03 PM PSNI engaging with 'groups likely to be affected by any protest activity' Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: 'We are aware of social media posts calling for protests across Northern Ireland this evening and in the week ahead. 'We urge anyone who plans to attend these protests to engage with us as we will be doing our part to ensure the safety of participants and to facilitate the lawful exercise of freedom of expression. 'Police will not tolerate a repeat of the scenes we saw last night in Ballymena and other parts of Northern Ireland. 'We will continue to diligently monitor the situation to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing response and we will be engaging with groups likely to be affected by any protest activity.' Today 12:58 PM Council assessing 'significant damage' caused to Larne Leisure Centre A spokesperson for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said: 'Council is currently assessing the significant damage caused to Larne Leisure Centre following last night's events. "Our priority is to ensure the safety of all residents and staff, and to restore the leisure centre to full operation. At present, the centre remains closed. "We would urge anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the police on 101.' Today 12:40 PM Three teenagers appear in court Three teenagers have appeared in court charged with rioting offences following the recent violence in Ballymena. A district judge in the town's magistrates' court said a strong message had to be sent out that those involved in the disorder would be dealt with 'robustly' by the court. Judge warns those involved in Ballymena disorder will be dealt with 'robustly' as three teenagers appear in court Three teenagers have appeared in court charged with rioting offences following recent violence in Ballymena. Today 12:23 PM 'It was a miracle that nobody was seriously injured or killed last night' Alliance MLA Danny Donnelly was at Larne Leisure Centre when it was attacked on Wednesday evening. Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph he said "we need to bring calm to our streets". Housing Association advises residents to leave homes ahead of planned protest Arbour Housing in Portadown sent a letter to its residents saying that a demonstration planned for Thursday is "directed towards migrants, foreign nationals, and what are perceived as deviant behaviour". The BBC has reported that letter added that the demonstration could lead to an "unsafe situation" and advised them to "stay with family or friends during the protest". The letter also said residents should take measures to "secure your property and belongings". Groups sharing details of the protest on social media said it will be "peaceful". Today 11:22 AM Deputy Mayor calls for calm ahead of planned protest Alliance Deputy Mayor Jessica Johnston has called for calm across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council area, after social media reports of planned protests in the Portadown area. Councillor Johnston said: 'The right to peacefully protest is a crucial aspect of our democracy, but we have seen people going out to deliberately cause violence and mayhem, while stoking racial tension. 'That is not acceptable anywhere. We have seen other areas descend into unrest and chaos, which achieves nothing except creating fear, hate and division, while also seeing the mindless destruction of people's own areas and vital public services. I don't want to see the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon area be the same. 'My heart goes out to all the newcomer and ethnic minority families who will not doubt be feeling fearful at this time. I want to reassure them the vast majority of people in our community are decent, inclusive and welcoming. 'I appeal to anyone looking at social media posts concerning planned protests to avoid them, and to those attempting to organise such protests, I urge to think again – remember there is a young girl at the heart of this situation and please don't use her trauma and pain as an excuse to cause trouble locally.' Today 11:15 AM MP urges those involved in planned Portadown protest to remain 'calm and respectful' MP for Upper Bann, Carla Lockhart, has said "legitimate concerns" must be "expressed within the boundaries of the law". Posting on social media on Thursday the DUP MP said: "Protests that are conducted within the law are a legitimate form of democratic expression, allowing individuals and groups to voice their opinions, advocate for change, and hold those in power accountable while respecting the rights of others and maintaining public order." She added: "I urge all involved to remain calm and respectful. Lawful protest is a right in any free society, but it must not tip into confrontation or chaos. "We have already seen in Ballymena how genuine grievances can be hijacked by a minority and spiral into violence. That is neither wanted nor welcome. "We must also remember that many people from different cultures have been part of our community in Portadown and surrounding areas for years. They are working in our hospitals, schools, and businesses contributing positively to society. "I strongly encourage everyone to remain calm and to never cross the line into criminal behaviour. The consequences of that can last a lifetime. "Let's ensure that whatever message is being sent is done so clearly, peacefully, and responsibly." Today 10:09 AM 'A brick came through the window, there were women on yoga mats' Alliance MLA Danny Donnelly was at Larne Leisure centre when it was attacked on Wednesday evening. Speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland show on Thursday morning, he explained how a crowd of about 100 people gathered at the facility around 6.30pm. 'There was a very sinister element to it,' he said. 'A crowd of masked youths were wandering around picking up bricks and pulling out bins. 'There was clearly an intent to attack the building and the building was busy at the time; there was a swimming club on and there was families and young children, people were doing fitness classes and coming and going about their business, but there was clearly an intent to attack the building and unfortunately that prevailed. 'The building was then pelted with bricks, windows were smashed, police were attacked with bricks and the building was set on fire." Mr Donnelly said the building had suffered "extensive fire damage" and "will be out of action for quite a while now." 'This is our town leisure centre which has been gutted," he added. 'It was absolutely disgusting, and it was quite frightening being inside the building as it was being attacked. 'There was a class going on when a brick came through the window, there was women on yoga mats doing an exercise class and a brick came through the window. 'Thankfully no one was injured but they very easily could have been. 'The staff were fantastic, they were able to manage to get people out to safety and away from the main thrust of the mob.' Olympic swimmer's sadness at leisure centre attack An Olympic swimmer who is a member of Larne Swimming Club has spoken of her sadness at the attack on Larne Leisure Centre. Danielle Hill, who also coaches younger children at the club, said the leisure centre was a safe space for so many. In a post on Instagram, Hill spoke of sadness at events in the town "I have proudly represented on the world stage". "No child should ever be forced to witness masked men in their home community," she said. "The local leisure centre is a safe place for so many, from young children (as young as six) learning to swim to elderly residents, has now been transformed into a place marked by fear and trauma. "What unfolded last night was not just violence - it was racism in its rawest and most dangerous form. Young people seeking 'fun' in a senseless act of vandalism. And its consequences are already being felt; a local community torn apart, families left frightened, workers left without incomes. The harm is not abstract - it is here, it is local and it is devastating." She also urged rebuilding. "This is a moment to come together, not fall apart," she said. "Let's keep talking. Let's keep listening. As we have done so many times before, let's lead with compassion, stand up for one another and show the strength of our community through our support - for every child and every family that calls this centre a home. Time to rebuild." Today 09:50 AM Footage appears to show a man with a hatchet during the third night of rioting in Ballymena. In a statement the PSNI said that petrol bombs, a hatchet, masonry and fireworks were among items thrown at officers. Today 09:22 AM Three nights of unrest 'not what Northern Ireland is about' – Benn Hilary Benn described scenes as 'shocking' after Wednesday saw a third consecutive night of unrest. Mr Benn said there is 'absolutely no justification for civil disorder'. He told the BBC's Good Morning Ulster programme: 'This not what Northern Ireland is about, this is not what we want the rest of the world to see. 'We all, as elected representatives, have a responsibility to seek to calm things down, to support those in the community trying to keep people safe, principally the PSNI, to work with community leaders to lower tensions. 'Whatever views people hold, there is no justification for trying to burn people out of their homes, that is what is going on, and that is what needs to stop because it is shocking and damaging, and it reflects very badly of the image of Northern Ireland that we all want to send to the rest of the world.' Today 09:13 AM PSNI appeals ' for calm voices and cool heads to reduce tensions' Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: 'Last night a significant policing operation was again required on our streets to deal with violent disorder. 'This criminal behaviour has no place on the streets of Northern Ireland and is completely unacceptable. 'What we witnessed last night has caused fear and huge disruption within our communities, including to our local transport network and community services. 'Police officers came under attack from petrol bombs, fireworks and heavy masonry. 'A hatchet was also thrown at police lines during this disorder in a clear attempt to seriously injure our officers – and I thank them once again for their continued efforts putting themselves on the line keeping our streets safe. 'We made six arrests last night during this disorder and more will follow. We are working hard to identify all those responsible in this criminal disorder, and those involved will be dealt with using the full force of the law. 'We are now in the process of gathering evidence, CCTV and other footage of yesterday's disorder, and anyone who has information or who can help identify those responsible is asked to contact police on 101. 'I would strongly urge anyone who was involved in yesterday's rioting and disorder to think long and hard about their actions and its impact. I would also appeal for calm voices and cool heads to reduce tensions.' Today 09:08 AM Six arrested and nine officers injured during third consecutive night of violence across Northern Ireland In a statement the PSNI said that petrol bombs, a hatchet, masonry and fireworks were among items thrown at officers in Ballymena. Unrest also broke out in Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus and Coleraine. Protests in the Antrim and Lisburn areas passed without incident, while protests in Belfast "were also mainly peaceful". Two men aged in their 20s and one in their 30s, and two teenagers were arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour and other offences. A teenager was also arrested in the Newtownabbey area in connection with disorder in the Station Road area. A spokesperson for the PSNI said:" In Larne, officers responded to a report the local leisure centre had been set alight in a shameful arson attack. "Shockingly, people were inside the building at the time of this fire – thankfully no injuries were reported – and we could have been looking at a completely different situation. "Our enquiries remain ongoing today in relation to the circumstances surrounding the fire. "In the Marine Highway area of Carrickfergus some masked protestors blocked local roads." They added: "In Coleraine, police received reports that a bus had been attacked, and was prevented from entering the train station. "A number of bins were also set alight on train tracks at the station - and petrol bombs were also thrown at officers – trains and bus services were also cancelled. "We are also investigating a fire to nearby business premises and a subsequent report that a number of young people broke into a local tyre business and added tyres to fire. "In Belfast, our officers dealt with a number of protests across the city – these were also mainly peaceful – travel was disrupted within the city for a short period of time in the Shankill and Shore Road areas. "As a result of a significant policing operation calm was restored to all areas at around 1am this morning." Today 08:28 AM Three teens charged following disorder in Ballymena The PSNI have confirmed that the arrests are in connection with disorder that broke out in the area on Tuesday, June 10. One man, aged 18, and two teenage boys, aged 15 and 17, have been charged with riot. The 15-year-old has also been charged with criminal damage. They are expected to appear before Ballymena Magistrates Court today. Two other teenage boys who were arrested during the disorder have been released on bail to allow for further police enquiries. Today 08:15 AM Justice minister says those rioting 'should be afraid because police will make arrests' 'Those people who have been showing their faces in the camera and think that they are empowered when they are part of a mob may not feel so brave when they get a knock on the door from the local police to arrest them for charges of riotous behaviour,' she said on BBC's Good Morning Ulster on Thursday Morning. When asked how she would respond to those who say they are not afraid, Ms Long said they 'should be'. She said: 'Well they should be, they should be afraid, because the police will make arrests, they have already done so over the past number of days, and I would expect that, as with the riotous behaviour last year, that a robust approach will be taken when it comes to dealing with those engaged with this sort of destructive racism and hate and violence on our streets.' Asked if photographs will be shared in the public domain she explained that that is the decision of the PSNI's chief constable. 'But that is how he proceeded last year and I know it was a very effective way in terms of identifying those who were involved in serious disturbances,' she said. 'What I would like to see is all of those in the community in positions of leadership, with influence, bring this to an end before someone loses their life, because that is the space we are now in, and people need to take responsibility for their own actions but also need to do everything within their power to call on others.'
