‘Reckless’ vandals carry out buses attack in Downpatrick

‘Reckless’ vandals carry out buses attack in Downpatrick

10 August 2022

THE Education Authority has been left with a hefty repair bill after six of its buses were targeted by vandals in what has been described as a “reckless act” in Downpatrick recently.

The six buses were parked on the Ardglass Road when they were damaged by vandals sometime between 8.30pm on Thursday, July 28 and 9am on Monday,  August 1.

A number of windows were smashed during the incident which has been roundly condemned by local politicians and police who are concerned about the impact it will have on children who rely on the vehicles.

Police have described the incident as a “reckless act of criminal damage” that will have a detrimental impact on a number of children from the local community who heavily rely on the important service.

Several weeks ago, an Education Authority bus parked at the Ballymote Sports and Wellbeing centre on the Killough Road was completely destroyed in an arson attack during a night of violence.

The most recent attack has been condemned by South Down MLA Colin McGrath who said he’s “absolutely appalled” at what happened, describing the incident as a “despicable act of wanton destruction”.

He said those responsible for the damage, which included several broken windows, have no regard for the consequences of their actions.

“This was a shameful act and and will impact on the Education Authority’s capacity to transport children to and from school,” the MLA declared.

“It also comes with a financial cost on an already stretched public purse and the general sense of wellbeing in our community.

“For those who have carried out this act of vandalism I appeal to them to stop as it is their own community they are damaging.”

Mr McGrath said he also wants to know why those responsible for attacking the buses want to involve themselves in such behaviour.

Appealing for them to get in touch with elected representatives to see what can be done to prevent the young people from getting caught up in violence, the Assemblyman said those who engagein such behaviour “are on a dangerous path” that may have more severe consequences further down the line, including potential criminal proceedings.  

But Mr McGrath believes that it is not too late to speak up about what has taken place.

He added: “There is a palpable sense of worry in our community with such vandalism taking place. We need to address its root cause and sort the issue out once and for all.”

Police investigating the vandal attack on the Education Authority buses are keen to hear from anyone who can assist them with their enquiries.

As enquiries continue, officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the Ardglass Road area between 8.30pm on Thursday, September 28 and Monday, August 1, to get in touch using the non-emergency 101 number.

Anyone who believes that they can help is asked to contact police quoting reference number 345 02/08/22.

Information can also be passed anonymously using the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555111 or go online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/