Sinn Féin Councillor Aidan Mathers has condemned in the strongest terms a further spate of dangerous and antisocial criminal attacks on buses in Newry, warning that this reckless behaviour is posing a significant risk to the public and having a serious impact on the wider community.
Councillor Mathers was speaking following two further attacks on buses last night at the same location on the Camlough Road route, which have resulted in significant damage to vehicles and left Newry Bus Station down four buses due to stone throwing.
“I utterly condemn these dangerous and criminal attacks on buses, once again occurring at the same location on the Camlough Road. This behaviour is completely unacceptable and is posing a significant risk to the public, including drivers, passengers and other road users.
“The consequences of this antisocial behaviour are now being felt right across the community. Bus management has been left with no option but to suspend evening services along the Camlough Road and Derrybeg route until at least Monday, disrupting one of the busiest bus corridors in the city.
“This route serves Monaghan Street, Camlough Road and South Armagh, and the suspension is directly impacting workers, students and families who rely on these services on a daily basis. A small number of individuals are causing widespread harm.
“This is not harmless behaviour — it is criminal, dangerous and deeply irresponsible.
“I have been in contact with the police and I am continuing to work closely with them and all relevant agencies to address this situation and prevent further incidents. I would urge witnesses or anyone with information to bring it forward to the police.
“I would also call on parents to know where their children are and to ensure they are not involved in this criminal behaviour which is endangering our communities and people.
“We will continue working with all relevant agencies, local stakeholders and the community to address these incidents, restore services safely and ensure that those responsible are held to account. The safety of passengers, drivers and the wider public must remain the absolute priority.”
CRÍOCH/ENDS
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