PSNI condemns “mindless violence” as Ballymena faces second night of unrest
- Love Ballymena
- Jun 11
- 3 min read
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has issued a strong condemnation following a second consecutive night of serious disorder in Ballymena, during which 17 officers were injured and multiple arrests made.
On the evening of Tuesday 10 June, officers came under sustained attack in the Clonavon Terrace area of Ballymena, facing a barrage of petrol bombs, heavy masonry, bricks and fireworks hurled at them over several hours.
The violence prompted the deployment of Attenuating Energy Projectiles (AEPs) and the use of a water cannon in efforts to disperse the crowd.
Five individuals were arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour, and remain in police custody. Additionally, a male was detained in Newtownabbey on suspicion of disorderly behaviour.
Chief Constable Jon Boutcher issued a stark warning and heartfelt plea to those involved.
“The mindless violence witnessed over the past two nights in Ballymena is deeply concerning and utterly 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.”
He added:
“Ironically, and frustratingly, this violence threatens to derail the very pursuit of justice it claims to challenge. Let me be clear: this behaviour must stop.”
Unrest spreads beyond Ballymena
Earlier that same evening, protests and disorder were also reported in Belfast, Lisburn, Coleraine, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey.
In Carrickfergus, a group of 20–30 young people ignited bins and threw bottles and masonry at police officers in the Sunnylands area at around 8.30pm. In Newtownabbey, bins were set alight at a roundabout on O’Neill Road.
Despite the spread of unrest, the most intense scenes unfolded in Ballymena, where businesses, homes and vehicles were damaged. Roads in the area were temporarily closed to ensure public safety and to allow officers to respond appropriately. All roads have since been reopened.
Officers injured and public appeal issued
The PSNI confirmed that 17 officers sustained injuries, some of which required hospital treatment. A public appeal has been launched to help identify those responsible.
Chief Constable Boutcher confirmed that investigators will begin reviewing video and photographic evidence, and
“Images of the individuals involved will be released to identify offenders.”
He issued a direct message to participants in the violence:
“Do not throw away your future and do not continue to endanger or intimidate the lives of others.
“To those who have been threatened or affected by this violence: we are with you. You deserve safety and justice, and we will find and prosecute those responsible. Hate-fuelled acts and mob rule do nothing but tear at the fabric of our society—they resolve nothing and serve no one.”
Calls for proper resourcing amid strained conditions
The Chief Constable also used the opportunity to highlight severe funding shortfalls impacting the PSNI.
“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.”
Boutcher praised the “unwavering professionalism, courage, and resolve” of his officers, saying:
“Again we see our brave officers putting themselves in harms way to keep people safe resulting in further unacceptable injuries – they are a credit to us all.”
To address the escalating situation, the Chief Constable announced plans to activate mutual aid resources from other forces, ensuring the PSNI has sufficient support to restore and maintain public order.
“The PSNI is a cornerstone of our society’s peace and security. It is time it was treated—and funded—accordingly.”
Police call to help
The PSNI is urging members of the public to come forward with any CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage that may help identify offenders. Evidence can be submitted via the Major Incident Public Portal:
To report information anonymously, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit:
Non-emergency reports can also be submitted via the PSNI’s online form:
