A second night of rioting in Ballymena in Northern Ireland has seen a “sustained attack” on 17 coppers injured with some in hospital after missiles and petrol bombs were aimed at the police.
A police spokesperson said, “Businesses and homes were attacked and damaged and a number of vehicles were also set on fire in the area.
“Seventeen officers were injured with some requiring required hospital treatment.”
Jon Boutcher, the Police Service of Northern Ireland chief constable, said this is “mindless violence” and is concerning and unacceptable.
He said, “These criminal acts not only endanger lives but also risk undermining the ongoing criminal justice process led by the PSNI in support of a victim who deserves truth, justice, and protection. Ironically, and frustratingly, this violence threatens to derail the very pursuit of justice it claims to challenge.”
He added, “As with any serious offenders in Northern Ireland, we will pursue those responsible and bring them to justice.
“We will now begin our investigation of reviewing all evidence gathered, including video footage, and images of the individuals involved will be released to identify offenders. Do nt throw away your future and do not continue to endanger or intimidate the lives of others.”
The Northern Ireland secretary, Hilary Benn, wrote on X: “The terrible scenes of civil disorder we have witnessed in Ballymena again this evening have no place in Northern Ireland.
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