Police search for culprit behind graffiti tag spree

There was condemnation this week of a graffiti spree that marred a number of buildings in Lisburn's Castle Street and Railway Street.
Graffiti around LisburnGraffiti around Lisburn
Graffiti around Lisburn

With police pursuing a criminal damage investigation, Lagan Valley MLA Edwin Poots spoke of disappointment that anyone would deliberately burden property-owners, many struggling traders, with clean-up costs.

It was all the more galling, he said, for coming as it did after years of steady improvements in the area concerned.

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It was reported that sometime overnight between Monday July 11 and Tuesday, July 12, graffiti was sprayed over “numerous” properties, causing what was described as a considerable amount of damage.

Constable Smyth of local police said: “I am appealing for the public’s assistance to identify this distinctive graffiti , which was sprayed over numerous buildings in the area, which has affected the lives of local people who own businesses here.

“Anyone with information that could help with the investigation can contact police in Lisburn on 101 and quote reference number 741 12/07/16 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

The DUP’s Mr Poots, meanwhile, said: “Castle Street has witnessed considerable improvements over the last decade especially with the redevelopment of Lisburn (South Eastern Regional) College. It is extremely disappointing that individuals would cause graffiti damage to a whole series of properties.

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“Many of these include private businesses who are struggling in difficult times ,to make money, without having to spend it on graffiti removal.

“The college itself is extensively damaged.

“It has been a huge success story for Lisburn and does not need to be expending limited resources clearing up after a graffiti attack.”