Wardens threatened by dissidents

It is understood that up to 11 community safety wardens are effected by the threat. The wardens are employed to deal with low-level anti-social behaviour and it is understood the threats were issued against them yesterday, Tuesday.

The warnens scheme is operated by the city’s Policing and Community Safety Partnership and the chairman of the PCSP, Drew Thompson, a DUP Alderman, called for the threats to be lifted when he appeared on local radio.

“I would appeal and say to these people responsible to get off the backs of the people and withdraw this threat, because it is totally unfounded and there’s no justification for it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sinn Féin councillor, Paul Fleming, said people wanted the wardens to continue with their work.

Arising out of the situation it is expected that the City Council will hold a special meeting on Wednesday to discuss the threats.

Council chief executive, Sharon O’Connor, said wardens were pivotal in providing peace of mind for people and every effort must be made to have the threat withdrawn immediately.

“We want the support of the public in calling for an immediate removal of this threat, so these people can return to work to continue to provide this vitally important community work,” she said.

In a statement the PSNI said the police do not discuss the security of individuals.