Leaders from all parties in Northern Ireland’s power-sharing executive have condemned the anti-Romanian riots that left police injured and multiple homes and businesses damaged. The violence erupted after two teenage boys, who remain in custody, were accused of a serious sexual assault on a teenager in Ballymena. Some of the attacks targeted areas where Romanian migrants reside.
The riots involved rioters hurling petrol bombs, fireworks, and bricks at homes and businesses, causing four houses to be damaged by fire. Six people have been arrested so far. Police Chief Jon Boutcher described the violence as “hate-fuelled acts that tear at our society’s fabric.”
The Northern Ireland leaders made a joint statement, urging calm and condemning the racially motivated violence. Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed this message, calling for an end to the incidents. The violence comes amid rising tensions over immigration in Northern Ireland and neighboring Republic of Ireland.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/northern-ireland-leaders-urge-end-to-anti-romanian-riots/a-72876616