Three people have been injured during a brawl outside a bar in Ballymena.
The incident, at licensed premises in Waring Street which spilled outside and onto the street, involved a number of men and the use of weapons, including a flick baton. Police are trying to establish a motive for the attack.
Three men, aged 30, 31 and 38 have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. A 56-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm in suspicious circumstances. All four men remain in custody, assisting police with their enquiries.
Detectives investigating the serious assault last night (Sunday 27 October) are appealing for witnesses and information.
Detective Sergeant Toni Lenaghan said police received a report at 10:50pm of a disturbance at licensed premises.
“Three men attended hospital for treatment of their injuries, including head injuries and a broken arm, none of which are believed to be life threatening.
“As our investigation to establish exactly what occurred and a motive for what happened continues, I want to appeal to anyone who was in the bar, or in the vicinity, around this time last night and who may have witnessed what occurred to get in touch with us,” she said.
“I am also appealing to anyone who has information which may assist our investigation to contact detectives in Ballymena on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 1995 of 27/101/19.”
Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.