How the protest unfolded
Initial trigger
A local criminal court case led to a vigil for the victim's family in Ballymena on 9 June.
Coalition / expansion
After masked individuals split away from the vigil, disorder spread beyond Ballymena to other Northern Ireland towns.
Turning point
ACLED recorded at least 12 violent incidents in June involving attacks on property and police; over 60 officers were injured over several nights.
Response
ACLED separately counted at least 17 peaceful anti-migration demonstrations and three pro-migration gatherings in June.
Observed outcome
Violent events and peaceful gatherings both occurred in June 2025. The figures reflect recorded events, not a claim that one NGO coordinated them.
Analytical interpretation
Within a single local grievance, a vigil, peaceful protest and violent riot can coexist. Treating all participation as one violent movement hides the different actors.