Police treating attack on Antrim new-build properties as 'sectarian-motivated hate crime'

Police have confirmed that they are treating an attack on a number of new-build properties in Antrim as a "sectarian-motivated hate crime".

Officers say they received a report in the early hours of Sunday morning that four men dressed in dark clothing had entered the Reford Grove development close to the Ballycraigy Estate in the town and had been throwing objects around.

Upon arrival, officers had discovered that windows had been smashed and paint damage had been caused to two of the properties.

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The PSNI's local policing Inspector Parkes said: "Just before 3am, it was reported that four people dressed in dark clothing had run into the Reford Grove development and thrown objects.

"On arrival, officers noted that two windows had been smashed, and paint damage caused, at both of the properties."

Inspector Parkes added: "We are treating this damage as a sectarian-motivated hate crime.

"I want to assure the public that we take all reports of hate crime extremely seriously. We have already increased proactive patrols in the area and our neighbourhood policing team will continue to engage with local community representatives and partner agencies, to monitor any impact or concerns.

"There is no place in our society for such behaviour. We take a zero tolerance approach to those wanting to cause fear, or incite and promote hatred. Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to call 101, quoting reference number 283 of 30/06/24.”

A report can also be made online via the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/, or by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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