Teenager arrested after slurry spread on Ballymena streets hours before town's first Pride parade
Police are treating the incident, which happened overnight, as a hate crime.
The 19-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of a bladed or pointed item. He remains in custody.
The Pride parade is scheduled to take place this afternoon.
Organisers have said the event is an effort to celebrate "diversity, inclusion and cross-community unity.'
The slurry incident has been widely condemned today.
Tánaiste Simon Harris condemned it as a 'vile act', saying: 'Love is love'.
Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland said 'There is no place for this kind of disgusting and deliberate attempt to intimidate, disrupt or shame those taking part in a peaceful and joyful celebration of love, identity and community.
'I have spoken directly with the parade organisers and the PSNI, and our team has engaged with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to ensure cleansing takes place urgently and the route is made safe and welcoming for all.
'Ballymena Pride is a historic and hopeful moment for our town. No amount of hate will drown out the message of inclusion, solidarity, and pride that today represents.'
NI Minister Naomi Long said on X: 'I despair the mentality of those who spread slurry on the streets of their town motivated by hate and bigotry. Disgusting in every sense of the word.
'Solidarity to all at Ballymena Pride. It's a frightening time but love will always triumph over hate.'
The PSNI said: 'Police in Ballymena have arrested a man after officers on patrol in the Granville Drive area observed slurry on the road at around 2.55am this morning.
'A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of a blade/point. He remains in police custody at this time.
'The matter is being treated as a hate crime and enquiries are ongoing.'
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