PSNI treating Glengormley War Memorial damage as hate crime

Police have launched an appeal for information after damage was caused to poppy wreaths at Glengormley’s War Memorial over the weekend.
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Officers received a report of the incident in the Ballyclare Road area of Newtownabbey yesterday (Sunday).

In a statement, Sergeant McCallion said: “Shortly before 8.10am on March 7, it was reported to police that a number of poppy wreaths had been damaged sometime overnight. This matter is being treated as a hate crime.

“Enquiries are ongoing and police would appeal to anyone with any information to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 409 07/03/21.

The incident is being treated as a hate crime.The incident is being treated as a hate crime.
The incident is being treated as a hate crime.

“A report can be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”

The incident has drawn condemnation from across the community.

The Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Glengormley SDLP Councillor Noreen McClelland, said: “Glengormley war memorial is a place where people who wish to can reflect and pay respect to those who lost their lives during the first and second world wars.

“The hateful attacks on this site are totally disrespectful and those responsible do not represent our shared community.”

Glengormley DUP Alderman Phillip Brett said: “Hugely disappointing that yet another attack has taken place overnight at Glengormley War Memorial.

“This act will be rightly condemned across the community. If anyone has any information, please contact the PSNI.”

Macedon Ulster Unionist Cllr Robert Foster said: “I really, really despair at the actions of people who have once again desecrated the poppy wreaths laid at Glengormley Cenotaph.

“I have made the PSNI aware and hope the culprits are brought to justice quickly.”

A similar incident was reported in August 2020. Click here to read: Condemnation after poppy wreaths removed from Glengormley War Memorial

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