16/04/2002

Ambulances raided for drugs in overnight vandal attack

Dangerous drugs have been stolen from four ambulances which were vandalised and knocked out of action following an overnight robbery.

The vehicles were parked at the Lagan Valley Hospital in Lisburn in County Antrim late on Monday April 16.

The thieves got away with two paramedic bags from the ambulances which contained adrenalin and diazepam - both of which could be fatal if taken without proper medical supervision.

Lily Kerr, ambulance union official from Unison said: “Any attacks on our staff or property is totally wrong. We need zero tolerance to this type of behaviour, particularly from the police.

“As a result of these vandals two vehicles are out of commission. They are now being serviced as a matter of urgent attention. If you don’t have enough vehicles and crew to carry out ambulance services, it all adds up and will ultimately endanger the wellbeing of the public because we are lacking in resources to respond to emergencies.”

An ambulance from Downpatrick in County Down and one from the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast have been drafted into the area to provide cover for the damaged vehicles.

(AMcE)

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