Q Newsdesk
At least five people have been injured during an assault at a flat in Ballymena.
Several masked men forced their way into the property in the Orkney Drive area late last night.
They attacked the occupants with weapons, including hammers.
A gun - or replica gun - is believed to have been brandished during the incident.
Three nearby properties were also damaged around the same, with a number of windows and doors broken.
Detective Inspector Michael Winters said:
“It was reported that, just after 11.30pm, several masked men had forced entry to a flat in the area, and proceeded to assault the occupants using weapons, including hammers. A gun or replica gun is believed to have been brandished. "
“At least five people were injured as a result. Two of them – two men – were taken to hospital, via Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, for treatment to injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening at this time."
“It’s reported that three other properties in the area were damaged around the same time last night, with a number of windows and doors broken."
“Such actions have no place whatsoever in this society. Police are maintaining a presence in the area and are working to bring those responsible to justice."