Vandals cause £3,000 worth of damage to cars

Police have appealed for information following a report of criminal damage to four cars parked in the Barban Hill Terrace, Balleny area, of the town.

The incident came to light sometime over the weekend, between 9pm on Saturday, July 14, and Sunday, July 15. The cars had been scratched at the sides and on their bonnets.

It is estimated over £3,000 worth of damage was caused in the incident which has raised concerns among local representatives and the community at large.

Dromore councillor Hazel Gamble said she was “extremely concerned” at what appears to be a random act of vandalism, the cost of which will be borne by the unsuspecting motorists who had parked their cars in the vicinity.

“I condemn all kinds of anti-social behaviour and this event is reprehensible,” said Ms Gamble. “There is not an awful lot people can do to protect their vehicles against this sort of destruction, but I would appeal to anyone who witnesses such attacks to report them to police immediately.

“At the end of the day, this problem is, potentially, everyone’s problem and we all must be vigilant.”

Fellow councillor Paul Rankin also voiced his “shock and concern” at the extent of the damage caused: “I utterly condemn this mindless vandalism and hope it does not become a recurring problem,” he said. “Thankfully, incidents of this nature have been sporadic in Dromore in the past and we want to see that situation continue.

“If anyone has any information on what happened, please pass details to the PSNI immediately.”

The most recent similar-type attacks were reported in April when cars parked in Waringsford and Banbridge were damaged, but this latest incident has resulted in the greatest collective financial cost in recent months.

Anyone with any information should ring police in Banbridge on 0845 600 8000 or the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.