Fury as ‘idiots’ set fire on road and post video on social media

The thugs gathered barriers and other items setting them on fire in the middle of a roundabout at Lake Street and Victoria Street in Lurgan, Co Armagh last night.

Video taken by one man has been shared widely on social media. In a foul-mouthed rant, he shares footage of himself and another masked man at the blaze shouting ‘Up the hoods’.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “A passing police patrol discovered burnt remains of bollards at the junction of Lake Street and Victoria Street in Lurgan at around 8.40am on Thursday 26th March.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact officers in Lurgan on 101.”

Video taken by one man has been shared widely on social media. In a foul-mouthed rant, he shares footage of himself and another masked man at the blaze shouting ‘Up the Hoods’.

Sinn Fein Cllr Liam Mackle said: “They are easily identifiable so hopefully the police can look at it, get them arrested and get them off the streets.

“They shouldn’t be out putting people at risk and putting public services at risk, that all has to be dealt with by people that have to go and work to do it.

“My understanding is that they are not even from the area, it is unbelievable what kind of mind set people have.”

“It is hard to fathom, how could you do it, even being out at night in this current climate is mad enough but to think it’s a good idea to drag stuff into the middle of the road and set it alight”.

Party colleague Cllr Keith Haughian said: “In the midst of everything that’s going on, this is what some idiots who aren’t even from the area have brought onto the streets of North Lurgan.

“Whilst the rest of us are worried about our families and community, these morons are bringing destruction to our streets and terrifying young children.

“The true face of this area has been seen the last few days in the kindness and generosity towards our elderly and vulnerable. If you’re going to come into this area then do so with respect.

“If you have information on the names please give them to the police or to me and I will pass it on.

“I hope they are ashamed of themselves.”

SDLP MLA Dolores Kelly said: “This crisis is making many people feel frightened and anxious for themselves and their families. It is also bringing out the best and the worst in people.

“The despicable behaviour of these young people is adding to their fears. We have reported the incident to the PSNI and call on anyone who can help identify the culprits to assist the police with their investigation.

“People can call 101 or crimestoppers on 0800 555 111or report onlin. They are not representative of the young people of North Lurgan where there is a huge community response to helping people affected by Cov19 by delivering essential medicines and food.”

SDLP representative Ciaran Toman said: “This is not the true face of the community, I think we are now passed all of that and we are trying to move on.

“I have been contacted by concerned individuals and have been told that they are not from the North Lurgan area.

“In recent weeks the community has become united in the face of this pandemic. Volunteers are going to great lengths to helping the most vulnerable in their own community and this behaviour certainly is not welcome.”