Police investigate reported sexual assault of teenage girl in Ballymena

Entrance to the public path in Ballykeel II which leads to Ballykeel I and the St Patrick’s link road.

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) have launched an investigation following the reported sexual assault of a teenage girl in Ballymena on the evening of Saturday 24th May.

The alleged assault on the 13-year-old child is reported to have taken place during daylight hours along a public footpath linking the Ballykeel I and Ballykeel II housing estates in the Co Antrim town.

The incident has raised concern among local residents due to its proximity to residential areas and the young age of the victim.

In a statement, a PSNI spokesperson confirmed:

“Detectives are investigating the report of a sexual assault of a teenage girl in Ballymena on Saturday, May 24th.

“Enquiries are ongoing and detectives are appealing for anyone with any information to contact them on 101 quoting reference number CW 1706-29/05/25.”

The male suspect is described as having dark-coloured skin, dark brown eyes, and speaking in a foreign language. He was reportedly dressed in a black tracksuit, possibly wearing Nike trainers, and had his face partially covered.

Notably, the perpetrator is also described as having a deep cut on the back of his left hand—an identifying feature for the public to be aware of.

The PSNI has not released further details at this stage, but investigations are continuing. The footpath where the assault allegedly occurred is a commonly used route in the local community, which may help in identifying potential witnesses.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact the PSNI via the non-emergency number 101, quoting the reference number CW 1706-29/05/25.