Five Arrests After New Riots in Northern Ireland, 17 Officers Injured

Last night, riots erupted again in the Northern Irish town of Ballymena, located about 40 kilometers from Belfast. Five people were arrested, and 17 police officers were injured during the clashes. This marks the second consecutive night of unrest in the area.

Rioters attacked police with stones, fireworks, and firebombs, setting cars and homes ablaze. Authorities had deployed a significant police presence following protests the previous night. The disturbances began as a peaceful demonstration against two 14-year-old suspects accused of attempted rape over the weekend. The situation escalated into violence, with the police describing the attacks as "racially motivated."

The identities and nationalities of the suspects have not been disclosed, though reports suggest the charges were translated into Romanian. Residents reportedly displayed signs labeling their homes as "British households" as a precaution.

Police used armored vehicles equipped with water cannons and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds. By 1:00 AM, calm had returned to Ballymena. The teenage suspects remain in custody until at least July 2.