BALLYMENA, Northern Ireland - For the second consecutive night, the town of Ballymena in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, has been gripped by civil unrest. On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, riot police clashed with protesters in the Clonavon Terrace area, marking an escalation of tensions that began the previous day [1][2][3].

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) deployed riot police and established barricades using police vehicles in response to the gathering of hundreds of protesters [2][3]. The situation quickly deteriorated as some individuals in the crowd began hurling objects at the police, including fireworks, glass bottles, and pieces of metal [1][4].

Law enforcement responded to the violence by using less-lethal rounds and water cannons in an attempt to disperse the crowd [2][6]. At least one car was set on fire during the disturbances [2].

This latest outbreak of violence follows Monday's disorder, which resulted in injuries to 15 police officers [3]. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson of the PSNI described Monday's events as "racist thuggery" and stated that a significant police operation would be in place over the coming days to prevent further disturbances [4][6].

The unrest appears to have stemmed from an earlier peaceful protest in support of the family of a girl who was allegedly sexually assaulted in the area [1][2]. However, the situation has since escalated into broader civil disorder.

As of Tuesday night, no official statement has been released regarding arrests or additional injuries. The PSNI continues to monitor the situation closely and has urged calm in the community [6].

Local authorities are calling for restraint and dialogue to address the underlying issues that have led to this outbreak of violence. The events in Ballymena highlight ongoing tensions in Northern Ireland and the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public order [4][6].