Third Night of Riots Across Northern Ireland Sees Hatchet Attack on Police and Arson in Larne

BALLYMENA, 12 June 2025 — The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has condemned a third consecutive night of violence which left nine officers injured and led to six arrests. Incidents were reported across Ballymena, Larne, Carrickfergus, Coleraine, and Newtownabbey.

Officers Attacked with Hatchet in Ballymena

In Ballymena, police officers came under sustained attack for a third night in a row. A hatchet was thrown at police lines, alongside petrol bombs, heavy masonry, bricks, and fireworks.

Fortunately, none of the nine injured officers sustained serious injuries and all remained on duty.

Two men in their 20s, one man in his 30s, and two teenagers were arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour and other related offences.

As in previous nights, police deployed water cannons and Attenuating Energy Projectiles (AEPs) in an effort to disperse violent crowds.

Leisure Centre Set on Fire in Larne

In Larne, the local leisure centre was targeted in an arson attack while people were still inside the building. Emergency services responded quickly, and no injuries were reported. Police say this incident could have ended in tragedy and are continuing their investigation.

Widespread Disruption Across Multiple Towns

In Carrickfergus, masked protestors blocked roads along Marine Highway, causing significant traffic disruption. Meanwhile, a teenager was arrested in Newtownabbey in connection with disorder in the Station Road area.

Coleraine also saw serious unrest. A bus was attacked and prevented from entering the train station. Bins were set alight on railway tracks, petrol bombs were thrown at officers, and services were suspended. Police are also investigating a fire at a nearby business and reports that a group of young people broke into a tyre premises to add fuel to the fire.

Protests in Antrim and Lisburn passed without incident. In Belfast, travel was briefly disrupted in the Shankill and Shore Road areas due to protests, though these remained largely peaceful.

PSNI Vows to Pursue Offenders

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson described the scenes as “completely unacceptable” and said further arrests are expected.

“Police officers came under attack from petrol bombs, fireworks and heavy masonry,” he said. “A hatchet was also thrown at police lines in a clear attempt to seriously injure our officers.”

He urged those involved to “think long and hard” about their actions and called for community leaders to help reduce tensions.

The PSNI is actively gathering CCTV, mobile footage, and witness statements. Anyone with information is encouraged to share it via:

• Major Incident Public Portal
• Online Reporting Form
• Crimestoppers (anonymous): 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org