Banners and painting stolen from Hall
Sectarian graffiti has been scratched inside an Orange Hall outside Londonderry, where two Loyal Order banners and a painting of King William were also stolen.
Police say they are investigating the burglary at the Fawney Road premises on Friday night.
Entry was gained via the roof after the fence at the rear of the hall was cut open. It is understood roof tiles were removed and the ceiling was damaged during the break-in.
DUP Alderman Maurice Devenney has condemned the robbery as “an act of sectarianism”.
He said the letters INLA were scratched onto two brass plaques commemorating the opening of the hall in the foyer.
“Cupboards in the Hall have been busted opened and the contents strewn across the floor.
“The initial assessment of the damage caused and theft could well run into £10,000,” the councillor said.
He said senior PSNI Officers at the scene said they will be proactive in their investigations.
“I have requested that the PSNI increase their presence around rural Lodge Halls in the Londonderry area,” he added.
Sinn Féin Councillor Paul Fleming also condemned the attack as sectarian.
He said: “This is wrong, and those behind this attack or indeed any other attacks on Orange halls need to think about their actions and the effect that they have on community relations.
“The simple fact is that whoever is behind such attacks can only be described as sectarian.”
He added: “There have been attacks on Orange halls and GAA clubs across the north.
“Both are equally as wrong and need to be brought to a stop immediately.
“There can be no justification for attacks against any section of the community whatsoever. I would appeal for the items stolen to be returned.
“I would call on anyone who saw anything suspicious in and around the hall to bring that information to the PSNI.”
Police are appealing for anyone with information to get in contact with them.
