Translink suspends several bus services in parts of Belfast as police ‘monitor' protests
Services on the Shore Road in north Belfast remain 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 have also been diverted towards the Ormeau Embankment due to ongoing demonstrations.
Protestors had previously blocked roads at Carlisle Circus which have since dispersed.
It's understood a crowd of around 50 gathered at the area holding placards saying: 'Protect Our Children.'
Shankill Road bus services have since been restored the public transport operator said.
A Translink spokesperson said: 'Metro 11 Shankill services have been restored. Shore road services currently suspended until further notice due to protests on the routes.
'Metro 6D services Diverted out and in via the Ormeau Road via the Embankment due to a protest on the Ravenhill Road.'
A PSNI spokesperson said: "The Police Service of Northern Ireland is aware of several protests across Northern Ireland this evening, Tuesday 10th June. Officers are in attendance and will continue to monitor the situation."
News Catch Up - Tuesday 10th June
The protests come after a vigil was held over the alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl in Ballymena yesterday.
Two teenage boys, both 14, were arrested in connection with the incident and have been jointly charged with the attempted oral rape of the girl on June 7.
However, violence following the vigil flared after masked thugs threw missiles at police officers and set alight several properties in the area.
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Belfast Telegraph
a day ago
- Belfast Telegraph
PSNI officers come under attack in Portadown during fifth night of rioting in NI
live | There has been trouble in Portadown tonight as police came under attack from missiles and petrol bombs. Earlier this evening, a protest was held in the town. Videos from the scene show a large police presence including officers in riot gear. In one video, a petrol bomb can be seen being hurled at a row of PSNI Land Rovers. Translink had diverted several bus services 'due to expected protests' in the town. Earlier, a senior PSNI officer said police are actively investigating 'those posting hate on social media' in the wake of a week of violent disorder across parts of Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland's Housing Executive chief said an 'unprecedented' number of families don't feel safe in their homes following four nights of violence, which resulted in 63 officers being injured. In a media briefing on Friday, ACC Ryan Henderson also said there is as yet 'no intelligence' of paramilitary involvement in the violence and confirmed there would be a 'large police presence around the country' this weekend. PSNI say Portadown riots had 'more co-ordination' as mutual aid to be deployed this weekend Missiles were thrown at officers after a protest in Portadown on Thursday, continuing a trend that was sparked earlier in the week in Ballymena. In Coleraine a family with young children had to be evacuated from their home following a fire. The PSNI are treating the fire as a racially-motivated hate crime. Liam Kelly, Chair of the Police Federation for Northern Ireland, described recent events as a 'week of shame' and called for attacks on officers to stop. There was also sporadic disorder elsewhere in Northern Ireland on Thursday night following mainly peaceful protests, including in the Templemore Avenue area of east Belfast. 37 minutes ago Several projectiles thrown at police, including a beer keg, in Portadown Tensions flare for a second night in the Co Armagh town with a number of missiles hurled at police in the last hour Kevin Scott on Twitter / X A number of missiles and a beer keg have been thrown at police in comes as a protest is underway in the town for a second from the scene show a large police presence including officers in riot gear.I understand police have also come under attack in… Kevin Scott (@Kscott_94) June 13, 2025 Today 06:16 PM Translink on Twitter / X #GLE Due to expected protests in #Portadown this evening, the 251c services at 18:35 & 20:05 from #Belfast to #Armagh will not serve Church St.ℹ️ These services will now operate from the Portadown Train Station bus stop instead.— Translink (@Translink_NI) June 13, 2025 External contentWhen displaying external content, data is transferred to third parties. Today 03:34 PM 63 officers injured over the course of the week 17 people arrested to date 13 charged with criminal offences 9 held overnight for court today Today 03:30 PM PSNI 'still no intelligence' regarding paramilitary involvement ACC Ryan Henderson said there has been much speculation to who has been involved. "Those arrested in Ballymena have all been local people." "No intelligence as of yet to paramilitaries" ACC Henderson said there was "more coordination" in Portadown on Thursday night "in comparison to previous days". Today 03:27 PM Weekend police presence ACC Ryan Henderson says the weekend will see a "large police presence around the country" Today 03:26 PM Latest PSNI press conference on riots Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson: "Those posting hate on social media are being actively investigated by police" Today 03:10 PM Racist graffiti condemned Today 01:35 PM Full repairs at Larne Leisure Centre 'will take many months and come at a significant cost' It has been revealed that it will take "many months" to repair Larne Leisure Centre after it was vandalised and set alight on Wednesday evening, and at a "significant cost". UUP MLA John Stewart met with Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Jackson Minford, at Larne Leisure Centre on Friday to assess the damage. Mr Stewart posted: "Seeing the extent of the damage inside the building (especially in the reception area) was deeply depressing. The level of destruction is significant and full repairs will take many months and come at a significant cost. "That said, I am really heartened to see the incredible efforts already underway. Staff and contractors are working around the clock to secure the site and explore ways of reopening parts of the centre on a temporary basis over the coming weeks. The Council will keep everyone updated as plans progress. "We also spoke with Louise and the fantastic team at the Prom Café. Despite losing a day's trade yesterday, they're back open and were being brilliantly supported by the local community this morning. Please do pop in and give them your support if you can. "The community's response in the face of such a depressing and senseless incident has been genuinely inspiring. A huge thank you to all the staff at Larne Leisure Centre and everyone involved in the clean-up and recovery efforts. Your work is appreciated more than you know . Let's get this vital community asset back on its feet." Today 11:59 AM Family targeted in Coleraine Coleraine couple with four children escape arson targeting their home in 'racially motivated' attack A couple and their four children have escaped injury after their house in Coleraine was targeted in what has been described as a 'racially motivated' arson attack. Today 10:49 AM 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". Today 09:32 AM 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.
Belfast Telegraph
3 days ago
- Belfast Telegraph
Fire started and windows smashed at Larne Leisure Centre
live | Follow our blog for the latest updates Masked youths have attacked Larne Leisure Centre by smashing windows and setting fires in a third day of disorder. Social media posts have suggested that those moved out of Ballymena homes were being housed there earlier today. It is understood there is currently nobody inside the Leisure Centre. It comes as protestors have gathered in towns across Northern Ireland with some being peaceful, while others have turned violent. The initial rioting ignited in Ballymena with the PSNI saying it is 'not clear' if paramilitaries are coordinating violence in the Co Antrim town. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson, speaking during a press conference today, said: "At this point it's not clear to us or through intelligence or what we're hearing if there's paramilitary coordination to it." Meanwhile, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn is planning to visit Ballymena, it has been announced. Lady Anderson, speaking in the House of Lords today, said the Cabinet minister was having "active conversations" with both the Stormont administration and the PSNI. News Catch Up - Wednesday 11th June 2025 The Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also condemned 'mindless attacks' during the outbreak of violence in Ballymena and other parts of Northern Ireland. Seven people have been arrested and 33 PSNI officers were injured over two nights of what the PSNI Chief Constable has described as 'mindless violence'. Follow our live blog for the latest updates: 3 minutes ago Police Land Rovers arrive at Larne Leisure Centre Five police Land Rovers have arrived at the scene of the ongoing incident in Larne. Fire crews have been tasked to tackle the blaze that is understood to be currently contained to foyer of the leisure centre. Damage caused to a leisure centre in Larne amid protests Social media posts have suggested that those moved out of Ballymena homes were being housed there earlier today. 38 minutes ago Police are at the scene as a small crowd has gathered in Ballymena Kevin Scott on Twitter / X A ring of police around the Harryville Bridge and Clonavon areas of crowds around but all spectators; all peaceful. @BelTel Kevin Scott (@Kscott_94) June 11, 2025 External contentWhen displaying external content, data is transferred to third parties. Today 07:05 PM Several bus services suspended in Coleraine following reports of a protest Translink on Twitter / X #ULB Due to a protest in the area & buses not being able to access to the bus station #Coleraine 140a/b triangle services have been suspended.— Translink (@Translink_NI) June 11, 2025 External contentWhen displaying external content, data is transferred to third parties. Today 06:03 PM A vandalised house in Ballymena is now displaying a 'British Household' sign in the window Today 05:39 PM MLA urges for political leadership amid reports of anti-immigration protest in Portadown Sinn Fein MLA John O'Dowd has called for all political representatives to show leadership and urge a boycott of an anti-immigration protest planned in Portadown this evening. A Sinn Fein spokesman said there are reports of a demonstration being organised with one flyer suggesting the protest will target several homes and a hostel in the area. 'Reports of a racist protest being organised in Portadown by faceless elements are deeply disturbing and disgraceful,' the Upper Bann MLA said. "I am calling on all politicians, particularly those with influence in the greater Portadown area, to distance themselves from this protest and to publicly encourage a boycott. 'Anything less would be a total abdication of leadership at a time when it is needed most. 'We have already seen the misery that racist thugs have inflicted on the people of Ballymena and elsewhere — those scenes must not be repeated in Portadown.' Today 05:08 PM Officers in north Belfast are investigating a number of reports of criminal damage and arson from yesterday evening Chief Inspector Mullan said: 'A number of homes and vehicles throughout the north of the city – in Buttermilk Loney, Silverstream Road, Woodvale Avenue and Oakley Street - were damaged with windows smashed. Also in Oakley Street, three properties sustained damage after a car was set alight. Shortly afterwards, in Silverstream Gardens, two vehicles were deliberately set alight, while a motorbike was destroyed in an arson attack in Florence Court. In Legann Street, another car was set alight and two houses had windows smashed. 'At this time, all incidents are being treated as racially-motivated hate crimes. We absolutely condemn these disgraceful attacks on our minority ethnic friends and neighbours. Those responsible are endangering not only the lives of those inside the properties, but putting themselves at risk of injury. 'Our investigations are ongoing and local officers are working to identify all those involved in this incident. Make no mistake, we are treating these incidents exceptionally seriously. We will pursue those responsible and ensure they face justice through our courts. We will continue to engage closely with partner agencies and local advocacy groups as enquiries continue." Today 04:51 PM Filipino man's plea to rioters after car burned out in Ballymena violence 'We are not here to destroy your community': Filipino man's plea to rioters after car burned out in Ballymena violence A Filipino man who had his car burned out and home attacked during violence in Ballymena has pleaded with rioters to stop, telling them 'we are not here to destroy your community'. Today 04:35 PM Comment from Allison Morris on Ballymena violence There's no dressing up Ballymena violence, there is no, 'it is wrong but'… it is just racism In Exodus, God instructed the Israelites to mark their doorways with the blood of a sacrificed lamb so he would "pass over" their houses, sparing their firstborn sons, while striking down the firstborn of the Egyptians. Today 04:07 PM PSNI warn 'is rioting worth your future being put under threat?' ACC Ryan Henderson: "Let me say in the clearest possible terms, the senseless violence is utterly unacceptable, and as I see it serves, only to endanger and destroy our local area, our local communities. "And I want to appeal directly to those involved or considering becoming involved in the disorder to stop and think. Ask yourselves, is the hatred something you want to be associated with? Is this worth being prosecuted for? Is it worth your future being put under threat? Or indeed the future of your children? "Most importantly, please ask yourself, how are [these criminal acts] helping the ongoing criminal investigation in support of a young victim who deserves justice? This violence only serves to undermine the criminal investigation and cause further distress and turmoil to a young victim and her family. " Today 04:03 PM 80 additional officers requested from Great Britain to help ACC Ryan Henderson said: "A significant policing operation, will be in place in Ballymena and beyond over the coming days. We're taking steps to increase available resources and are surging a significant number of extra officers, vehicles, and equipment to those areas with the rioting is taking place. This will have an impact on our communities." Today 03:59 PM PSNI preparing for possibility of more violence tonight ACC Ryan Henderson said: "My nearly 30 years in policing makes me absolutely alert to the fact we could see more tonight and that's why we're preparing and planning for that. "But I don't want the communities of Northern Ireland to feel unsafe, nor do I want them to feel that I am saying that we will definitely see this tonight." Today 03:57 PM Police 'not clear' on whether paramilitary coordination to rioting ACC Ryan Henderson said: "You will see the power of social media connecting different parts of Northern Ireland in terms of the desire to protest, but also the desire to be violent and how that has been done. And we have seen that in a number of sites over the past couple of days. "At this point it's not clear to us or through intelligence or what we're hearing if there's paramilitary coordination to it. But I want to be very clear that if it does come out from our investigations I'll not be slow or shy in attributing blame to those who are involved. " Today 03:53 PM PSNI press conference In a PSNI press conference today Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson praised officers who have dealt with two days of rioting in Ballymena. He said: "32 officers have now been injured over the last two nights of rioting. And I want to say publicly my admiration for the bravery and professionalism of those officers that they showed when dealing with the challenges and the violence they had to face." Today 03:40 PM NI Secretary hoping to visit Ballymena Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn hopes to visit Ballymena in the coming days, according to Lady Anderson. She also said the Cabinet minister was having "active conversations" with both the Stormont administration and the PSNI. Lady Anderson told peers that the region's Chief Constable Jon Boutcher was in the process of submitting a request through the mutual aid scheme to support current police policing operations. Today 03:33 PM Government minister says communities left 'very scared' following violence in NI A Government minister has said her thoughts are with communities in Northern Ireland who have been left "very scared" after two nights of violence in which a number of police officers have been injured. Responding to an urgent question in Parliament, Lords spokesperson for Northern Ireland Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent said: "The recent scenes of civil disorder which we have seen in Ballymena have no place in Northern Ireland. "The attacks on police officers as they work to keep people safe and on property are wholly unacceptable. "I would like to express my sincere thanks to the PSNI, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and the Northern Ireland ambulance service, who have worked in difficult conditions over the past few days to keep people safe. "My thoughts and prayers are with those officers still receiving treatment, and with the communities across Northern Ireland who woke up this morning very scared." Today 02:41 PM Policing Board members thank PSNI and emergency services for efforts in 'face of vicious attack' Policing Board Members today attended a specially convened briefing to receive an update from the PSNI on the policing response to the violence and disorder in Ballymena and other areas of Northern Ireland. Members were briefed on policing operations and challenges following violence. Policing Board Chair Mukesh Sharma said: "Our thoughts are with the victim of this assault and their family. "Measures now being taken by the police to reassure the victims of the violence, and the wider community affected, were outlined and discussed." He added: "Board Members also heard about the ferocity of the violence directed at police officers and the police command decisions to deploy water cannon and baton rounds were explained. "We thank all the police officers, and emergency service colleagues, for their work in the face of vicious attack, and trust all 32 officers injured will make a full recovery." Ms Sharma said the board condemns acts of "wanton violence against people, police and property". He added: "Such violence and racism has no place in our community. The widespread calls for calm, in tandem with condemnation of the disorder and support for policing from political leaders and others, are welcomed. "Policing needs the continued support through political and community leadership to bring this violence to an end." Today 01:44 PM Deputy First Minister says violent demonstrations 'serve no purpose whatsoever' Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly says violence in Ballymena is "serving no purpose whatsover, but risk criminal convictions of young people". The Deputy First Minister added that the family of the victim of an alleged sexual assault in Ballymena have been "very clear" that they did not want violence following a peaceful demonstrations on Monday night. "At the heart of this initial protest was a victim, a young girl." "But then of course that [demonstration] turned into something very, very different, the family have been clear, they don't want that violence." Today 01:38 PM First Minister: Recent violence 'pure racism' Speaking at a joint press conference, First Minister Michelle O'Neill condemned recent violent demonstrations as "pure racism", saying "It's pure racism, there's no other way to dress it up." "We can't dress this up, this is racism in Ballymena, and we have to say that this is not tolerated in this society". "It's wrong - we have to say that it's wrong and all political leaders need to join together in calling for calm." First Minister Michelle O'Neill Today 01:02 PM Local Council on unrest: 'It needs to stop now' Mid and East Antrim Borough Council have condemned the unrest of the past two nights in Ballymena, saying the incidents have "brought fear and distress to so many people and blighted our local community." The Council also called for an end to the violence, urging anyone considering getting involved in demonstrations to think again. 'It needs to stop now. These are not protests, they are a disguise for violence and vandalism and will not be tolerated. 'Ballymena is a thriving town with a wonderful mix of people, businesses and communities. What is being broadcast across the world is not representative of the town or its people. 'Comprehensive plans are in place by the police to prepare for and deal with any further disorder. We would strongly urge anyone considering attending any gatherings to think again - stay at home, do not stand side-by-side with rioters, and think of your community."
Belfast Telegraph
4 days ago
- Belfast Telegraph
Car torched as disorder spreads to other areas of NI on second night of violence in Ballymena
LATEST | Car set alight in north Belfast Sporadic disorder in Newtownabbey, CarrickfergusCalm restored to Ballymena around after 1am after second night of violence Calm was restored to the Ballymena area after 1am last night after a second night of violence erupted. 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. Police also dealt with sporadic disorder in Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus while a car was set alight in north Belfast. 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 in Ballymena 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.' Around 300 protestors gathered in the area, close to where a teenage girl was alleged to have been sexually assaulted at the weekend. 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.
