Police Endure Fifth Night Attacks Across Northern Ireland Amid Unrest

Northern Ireland has experienced a week of violent unrest, beginning with protests in Ballymena over an alleged sexual assault and spreading to other towns such as Portadown, Coleraine, and Larne. Police officers have faced sustained attacks including petrol bombs, bricks, bottles, and fireworks, resulting in 63 officers injured over multiple nights. Authorities have made 17 arrests and released images of suspects to seek public assistance in identifying those responsible. The Northern Ireland Housing Executive reported an unprecedented number of families feeling unsafe, with some needing emergency accommodation after attacks on homes and facilities like Larne Leisure Centre. Senior police officials, including ACC Ryan Henderson and Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, have condemned the violence and vowed to prosecute offenders without fear or favor, while noting some involvement of individuals linked to loyalist paramilitary groups. A large police presence and mutual aid from Scotland are being deployed to manage and prevent further disorder over the weekend.