Several houses have been attacked by masked youths, who could be seen kicking in doors and throwing missiles at windows.
Footage showed some attempting to set curtains alight after front windows were smashed.
It’s understood that at least two houses were set on fire, with flames spreading to other properties.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus could be seen forcing their way into properties amid fears that people could be trapped inside.
PSNI riot officers had attended the scene earlier in an attempt to “bring calm to the area”.
Protesters, some covering their faces, gathered in Clonavon Terrace from early evening amid the heavy police presence.
The PSNI blocked the street off with Land Rovers and a drone could be seen hovering over the area.
Several properties in the area suffered severe damage, including broken windows, and a boat could be seen overturned in the street.
Motorists and pedestrians have been asked to avoid the Clonavon Road area until further notice.
Paint and masonry has been thrown at PSNI Land Rovers and a patrol car appeared to have a broken window after an object was thrown at it.
Chief Superintendent Sue Steen appealed for locals to remain calm and refrain from engaging in violence.
“We are urging everyone to remain calm and to act responsibly. Violence and disorder will only place people at greater risk.
“Our priority is to keep the community safe, and I would appeal to everyone to work with us to bring calm to the area as quickly as possible,” she said.
A PSNI spokesman said officers will remain in the area tonight and continue monitoring the ongoing situation.
They said: “A number of missiles have been thrown towards police with damage reported to a number of properties.
“Officers are advising motorists and pedestrians to avoid the Clonavon Road area until further notice.”
The statement added: “Officers are in attendance to ensure the safety of everyone involved. They will remain in the area tonight to continue to monitor the situation.”
Protesters built a makeshift barricade and a small fire in the street which has since been extinguished by fire crews.
Police dogs have also been deployed in the area with hundreds of protestors stopped on Harryville Bridge, not far from Clonavon Terrace, which in turn is close to the town’s main police station.
It came hours after two 14 year old boys appeared at Coleraine Magistrates’ Court charged with the attempted rape of a teenage girl in the Co Antrim town.
Firefighters have been dealing with a number of incidents after disorder broke out in Ballymena. Photo: Kevin Scott
News Catchup – Monday 9th June 2025
The alleged incident occurred in Clonavon Terrace in the Co Antrim town on Saturday between 7.30pm and 10.30pm in what police described as a “serious sexual assault”.
Their solicitor said both accused had no record in the jurisdiction and both denied the matter in interview with police.