Threats and tit-for-tat graffiti war condemned

Graffiti makes mention of particular individuals including Andy Allen who was murdered by Republican Action Against Drugs earlier this year.

Mr Ramsey said he had been approached by Mr Allen’s family who wanted to condemn the widespread painting of graffiti, no matter which ‘side’ culprits thought they were on.

Following reports that a 15-year-old boy had been threatened by masked men in the Top of the Hill area, Mr Ramsey said the Allen family wanted to condemn all threats and to say that no one engaging in any anti-community and illegal activity was representing the family.

Mr Ramsey said: “The vandals responsible for this graffiti are heaping further pain on the Allen family who are still coming to terms with the loss of their son. Having spoken to the family they have made it clear they want to see an end to this graffiti and threats. The graffiti is dangerous as it threatens the safety of those who are named. It is also deeply offensive and unwelcome.

“Graffiti has appeared in places such as the Top of the Hill area in the Waterside. It significantly devalues the area and is a total eyesore. I would urge those people involved to consider their behaviour and the damage it is doing to the wider community.

“The threats contained within the graffiti are also interfering with police work. It is in all our interests to have a safer society and this graffiti only impedes that good work.

“As the people of Derry look forward to the City of Culture year we cannot accept these actions. I call on these vandals to stop their behaviour immediately and leave the police to investigate any alleged criminal activity themselves.”