Police Investigate Removal of Pride Flags in Ballymena Town Centre

Authorities in Ballymena are looking into the disappearance of Pride flags from the town centre during Pride month, considered a homophobic hate crime. LGBTQ+ activists had put up the flags to show support and raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues.

Police in Ballymena are investigating the removal of pride flags from various locations in the town centre. The flags, intended to celebrate Pride month, were taken down between 1am and 8am on June 12. This incident is being treated as a homophobic hate crime.

The flags were organized by LGBTQ+ activists Viktorija Rimskiene, 25, and Jess McCroary, 15, to support the community and raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues. Initially, one flag was displayed, which was removed after 12 hours. Afterward, six additional flags were put up with permissions from the police, the local council, and the Department for Infrastructure. Five of these were also removed within 24 hours.

Ms. Rimskiene reported the second incident to the police, who have since been praised for their responsive action. The police are now appealing for any information that could assist in their inquiries.