Four held in connection with Ballyclare riots

Police investigating riots that broke out in Ballyclare after officers removed flags outside a Catholic church have arrested four men.

A number of searches were also carried out in the Co Antrim town in connection with the disturbances on July 9 and 10.

Police said: “The investigation into the violence in Ballyclare in July is ongoing and is progressing well.”

A number of items were seized during the searches and the arrested men have been 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.