19-Year-Old Man Charged with Riot Following Ballymena Disorder

A 19-year-old man has been charged with riot in connection with recent public disorder in Ballymena. He is scheduled to appear before Coleraine Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 18 June 2025.

Man to Appear in Court Over Ballymena Rioting

Police have charged a 19-year-old man with riot following an investigation into the recent unrest in Ballymena, County Antrim.

The man is expected to appear before Coleraine Magistrates’ Court today, Wednesday 18 June 2025.

The charge follows ongoing efforts by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to address the wave of disorder and violence seen in various towns across Northern Ireland earlier this month.

Investigation Ongoing

Detectives involved in the investigation have confirmed that as with all criminal charges, the case will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in due course.

This latest charge brings the total number of individuals arrested and charged in relation to the Ballymena disturbances to several, including a 13-year-old girl and multiple adults, all facing a variety of serious charges including riot, child cruelty, and conspiracy to commit arson.

Background

The PSNI has been conducting a major public order investigation after incidents of rioting, arson, and race-motivated crimes were reported in towns including Ballymena, Larne, Belfast, Bangor and Ardoyne.

The police have also released images of suspects and are calling on the public to help identify individuals involved in the recent unrest.

Appeal for Information

Anyone with relevant footage or information is encouraged to contact the PSNI:

• Submit evidence online via the Major Incident Public Portal
• Report anonymously through Crimestoppers or call 0800 555 111