Slurry spread across Ballymena streets ahead of town’s first Pride Parade – PSNI make arrest

Greenvale Street, Ballymena.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested after slurry was sprayed on streets in Ballymena in the early hours of Saturday morning, just hours before the town was due to host its first-ever Pride parade.

Police on patrol discovered the incident at approximately 2.55am on Saturday, 28 June, in the Granville Drive area.

In a statement, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed:

“Police in Ballymena have arrested a man after officers on patrol in the Granville Drive area observed slurry on the road at around 2.55am this morning, Saturday 28th June.”

The PSNI said the suspect was detained on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of a blade/point. He remains in police custody as investigations continue.

Authorities have confirmed that the incident is being treated as a hate crime, coming as it does just before the planned Pride celebration — a landmark event for the County Antrim town.

“The matter is being treated as a hate crime and enquiries are ongoing,” the PSNI added.

The first Ballymena Pride parade is set to take place later today, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion in the area, which has historically seen strong conservative influences.

It is not yet clear whether the slurry was intentionally targeted at areas designated for the Pride parade route. However, the timing and nature of the incident have sparked condemnation on social media, with many describing it as a clear act of intimidation.

North Antrim Alliance MLA, Sian Mulholland condemned the incident. Ms Mulholland said:

“I want to unreservedly condemn those who spread slurry on the streets of Ballymena ahead of the town’s first-ever Pride parade today.

“There is no place for this kind of disgusting and deliberate attempt to intimidate, disrupt, or shame those taking part in a peaceful and joyful celebration of love, identity, and community.

“I have spoken directly with the parade organisers and the PSNI, and our team has engaged with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to ensure cleansing takes place urgently and the route is made safe and welcoming for all.

“Ballymena Pride is a historic and hopeful moment for our town. No amount of hate will drown out the message of inclusion, solidarity, and pride that today represents.

“Solidarity with Mid & East Antrim Pride and all involved today.”

Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan has also condemned the incident.

“The incident happened ahead of the town’s first-ever pride parade, due to take place this afternoon.”

“This is a disgraceful act, clearly intended to disrupt Ballymena’s first pride parade and intimidate those taking part,” said the North Antrim MLA.

“It’s welcome that a man has since been arrested.

“I want to express my solidarity with everyone involved in Ballymena Pride, who will make history today by marching through the town.

“Equality, rights, and respect must be at the core of our society, and Sinn Féin will continue to stand with our LGBTQIA+ community.”

Police are appealing to the public for information that could assist with their investigation.

“Anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 191 of 28/06/25. Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”