Disorder broke out in Ballymena on Monday night, with significant numbers of police responding to incidents in the Co Antrim town.
Footage published on social media showed armoured police officers carrying plastic shields following an anti-immigration protest.
The disruption followed a demonstration in the Clonavon Terrace area of the town, where it is alleged a girl was subjected to a serious sexual assault over the weekend.
The footage showed protesters burning plastic road barriers and bins as part of a barricade formed on the street.
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Some masked individuals also threw missiles including cans of paint and glass bottles at Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) vehicles.
A line of police vehicles advanced towards the protesters followed by officers on foot.
Firefighters later responded to the burning debris on the road and inspected a nearby house which had filled with smoke.
Other footage appeared to show some protesters targeting houses by smashing windows.
In a statement, the PSNI said: “A number of missiles have been thrown towards police with damage reported to a number of properties.
“Officers are advising motorists and pedestrians to avoid the Clonavon Road area until further notice.”
The statement added: “Officers are in attendance to ensure the safety of everyone involved. They will remain in the area tonight to continue to monitor the situation.”
Chief Supt Sue Steen said: “We are urging everyone to remain calm and to act responsibly. Violence and disorder will only place people at greater risk.
“Our priority is to keep the community safe, and I would appeal to everyone to work with us to bring calm to the area as quickly as possible.”
The PSNI asked anyone with information to contact them or the Crimestoppers charity. − PA
