Local Election Posters Stolen In North Coast

A Sinn Fein Councillor in Ballycastle has condemned the recent theft of her election posters.

Police discovered the criminal activity last night, Tuesday 09 April, after stopping a suspicious looking vehicle in Portrush.

Stolen election posters were found in the vehicle and four people were ordered to court for theft and criminal damage offences.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "Some of you out there will scoff at this post and allege political policing however in our eyes when any member of the public reports a crime to ourselves it is investigated to the best of our ability irrespective of religion, race, disability or sexual orientation. Please reflect on what your own expectations would be if you became a victim of crime."

The posters had been erected in the Ballycastle area in the run up to the local government elections early next month. Sinn Fein's Cara McShane hit out at those responsible for the criminal offence.

She said their actions represent "a clear attempt to frustrate the democratic process" and upset the current campaign.

She continued: "I have been informed by the PSNI that they are preparing a file for the Public Prosecution Service. Sinn Féin have a democratic and legitimate right to campaign, and to bring our message of equality, rights and Irish Unity to the people of the Causeway Coast and Glens area.Despite efforts to undermine that message, I will not be deterred."



(JG/CM)