Sectarian attacks are causing 'anxiety within the community' says Mid Ulster DUP politician
Attacks on Protestant property and vehicles in Innishrush, Tamlaght, Maghera and Culnady areas, have been described as “sectarian” by Mid Ulster DUP MLA Keith Buchanan.
He said the recent attacks had caused “real anxiety within the community”.
“It is important that the voices of those directly affected are heard and supported,” said Mr Buchanan.
During a recent clean-up in Culnady with his party colleague Councillor Kyle Black, Mr Buchanan said residents raised their concerns about attacks.
“I have been in direct contact with the PSNI regarding these matters, and I want to strongly encourage anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward to the police,” he said.
“Sectarian attacks and hate motivated crimes have no place in our society. These attacks demonstrate that there is an element in our society that continue to desire to drag Northern Ireland backwards.
“Those responsible must be held to account, and the most effective way to support that process is by ensuring all incidents are reported directly to the PSNI.”
A PSNI spokesperson said they received a report that eggs had been thrown at an Orange Hall in Kilrea at some point over the weekend and that five vehicles parked nearby had also been hit with eggs.
Inspector Wilson added: "Our officers are aware of local areas where this type of anti-social behaviour is causing concern, and are targeting proactive patrols in the community.
"Our collaboration with partner agencies around these issues is ongoing, alongside our enquiries into this incident.
"We are treating this report as a sectarian hate crime and would appeal to anyone with information to contact us.”