Northern Ireland plunges into chaos, anti-immigrant protests degenerate into violence, fires and destruction

Northern Ireland is in a state of emergency after a wave of anti-immigrant violence has paralyzed communities in County Antrim, centered on the town of Ballymena.

According to local media, scenes of chaos in recent days have been characterized by attacks, arson, vandalism and violent clashes with police, sparking international concern.

The Larne Leisure Centre, which had been converted into an emergency centre to house families - mainly Romanian immigrants - fleeing the chaos of Ballymena, was ransacked by a group of hooded men on Wednesday evening.

About a dozen people broke windows, set fire to trash cans, and threw burning objects into the building, causing damage and terror to staff and visitors.

The incident was sparked by a social media post by DUP (Democratic Unionist Party) minister Gordon Lyons, who revealed the location of the hideout. Lyons is accused of helping to incite the attack and has been referred to the Northern Ireland Assembly's Standards Commissioner.

Tensions have been high since two 14-year-old boys of Romanian origin were accused of attempting to sexually assault a teenage schoolgirl.

The incident is suspected to have been exploited by extremists who used online platforms to incite hate crimes against immigrants. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said the attacks were clearly motivated by racism and increased patrols, asking for support from Scotland.

Fear in minority communities has become a daily occurrence. Signs with phrases like "Filipinos live here" or UK flags have been placed on homes and businesses in a desperate attempt to ward off mob anger.

The local community appears trapped between violent groups and helpless defenses, with images of homes burning, vehicles being destroyed, and neighborhoods living under siege.

Northern Ireland Police say up to 400 people have been involved in violent incidents over the past three nights, using Molotov cocktails, fireworks, bricks and glass bottles against police officers.

Security forces responded with water cannons and rubber bullets. More than 20 such bullets were reportedly used last night, while five arrests were made for rioting.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill called the events "pure racism", while Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly stressed that "violence serves no one". UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also strongly condemned the attacks. 

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