LARNE, Northern Ireland — A leisure center in Larne was targeted in a violent attack amid escalating unrest in the region over the past few nights. The disturbances, which began with a peaceful protest following an alleged sexual assault in Ballymena, have resulted in injuries to 32 police officers and multiple arrests.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council confirmed that the Larne Leisure Centre had served as emergency shelter for families in need due to the turmoil in Ballymena. Earlier in the day, masked individuals were reported to be throwing objects at vehicles, prompting law enforcement to respond. Initial police presence withdrew as tensions flared, but riot-equipped officers later returned to restore order as a crowd of about 50 onlookers watched.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service dispatched personnel to the scene late Wednesday evening as smoke was reported billowing from the center. While the fire was under control by then, significant damage was already inflicted, particularly to the facility’s front reception, leading to extensive smoke damage.

Local officials expressed outrage over the violence. Alliance Party MLA Danny Donnelly described the chaos as “absolute disorder” and condemned the attackers. He recounted a frightening moment when a brick shattered a window during a yoga class, forcing staff to evacuate through the back door.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons acknowledged the sheltering of families at the leisure center without prior consultation with local authorities, expressing his dismay over the failure to communicate. He condemned the violence as “wanton destruction” that undermines the entire community.

In Ballymena, those gathered had reportedly thrown smoke bombs, bottles, and fireworks at police attempting to contain the situation. The police presence intensified as officers in riot gear confronted the crowd, employing dogs and bringing water cannons to control the unrest.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson labeled the violence “racist thuggery” aimed at both ethnic minorities and law enforcement. Henderson emphasized the need for accountability while acknowledging the negative impact of the violence on community resources and ongoing criminal investigations.

In light of the unrest, additional police officers have been deployed to the region, with some support requested from Police Scotland under mutual aid arrangements. Henderson reiterated that repercussions for those involved in the violence would follow, noting that social media appeared to be driving some of the aggressiveness.

The ongoing chaos has led to a palpable sense of fear among residents, with some choosing to flee their homes. Mika Kolev, a mother of two living in Ballymena, shared her distress over the situation, stating that her family may have to return to Bulgaria for their safety.

Local and national officials condemned the violence, with First Minister Michelle O’Neill denouncing the incidents as “pure racism.” Meanwhile, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly acknowledged that the violence served no beneficial purpose for the community.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the incidents, emphasizing the importance of restoring peace and addressing the deeply rooted issues that have sparked such confrontations. As the situation continues to evolve, community leaders are calling for dialogue and understanding to move toward reconciliation.