Police are appealing for calm following recent incidents of public disorder and anti-social behaviour in Downpatrick. They have also warned there will be an increased patrol of officers in the area.
A stark reminder has also been issued that those involved in committing offences such as arson and criminal damage face the very real prospect of prosecution and a criminal record.
It follows a number of recent incidents in the area. Shortly before 10pm on Thursday, June 23, police received a report that a car had been set alight by youths within the vicinity of Model Farm Shopping Complex.
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The Renault Clio was burnt out and police confirmed they're treating this incident as arson. Inspector Trevor Campbell said: "No youths were detected in the area when officers attended and thankfully, no one was injured as a result of this incident."
Police also received a report that a community minibus had been burnt out within the Glebetown Drive area on Friday, June 24, at 12.20am. The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service attended the scene and came under "a sustained attack from youths throwing bricks and stones" while dealing with the fire.
Inspector Trevor Campbell continued: “Although no injuries were reported, I would strongly condemn this type of anti-social behaviour and nobody comes to work expecting to be assaulted.
"These firefighters had been carrying out their duty and serving our local community in order to protect property, prevent danger to the public and reduce any further risk of injury. This was completely unacceptable.
“In light of these recent incidents of public disorder, I am appealing to those involved to keep a cool head and think about the consequences of your actions which could lead to a criminal record.
“Our enquiries are currently ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information or who may have footage of any of these incidents to contact police in Downpatrick on 101, quoting reference numbers 1992 of 23/06/22 and 41 of 24/06/22.”
Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.
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