Man charged over Co Antrim riots

A (23) man will appear in court today in connection with riots in Ballyclare, Co Antrim.

A (23) man will appear in court today in connection with riots in Ballyclare, Co Antrim.

Police said the man was charged with rioting contrary to common law, and will appear at Belfast Magistrates Court.

It is understood the charges relate to violence in Ballyclare on July 9th and 10th.

Earlier, four men were arrested by police investigating riots that broke out in the County Antrim town after officers removed flags outside a Catholic church.

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A number of searches were also carried out in the town in connection with the disturbances last month.

“The investigation into the violence in Ballyclare in July is ongoing and is progressing well,” a police spokesman said.

A number of items were seized during the searches and the arrested men were taken to Antrim station for questioning.

Detectives said a 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a series of offences including five counts of attempted murder, rioting and driving offences.

A 21-year-old was arrested on suspicion of rioting, going equipped to commit criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon.

A 22-year-old was arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour and possession of an offensive weapon for use in criminal damage.

A 55-year-old man was detained on suspicion of riotous assembly, possession of an offensive weapon and going equipped to commit criminal damage.

PA