Ards and North Down PCSP Chair Cllr Rachel Woods slams latest violence in Ards and North Down
Green Party NI councillor for Holywood and Clandeboye Rachel Woods said, "The PSNI are investigating a series of criminal incidents linked to an ongoing feud between two rival drug gangs operating under the banner of the UDA.
"Since last week, numerous homes, many of which were occupied at the time, have been attacked, and there have been attempted hi-jackings and graffiti has been daubed on properties all across the Borough.
"The criminals behind these incidents don't care about local communities and the vast majority of local people who are trying to get by, live their lives and raise their families during tough economic times. They are only interested in making money for themselves, exerting coercive control over communities and harming people through the sale of drugs.
"The PSNI are increasing their presence locally and are trying to provide reassurance by allocating extra resources. This increased presence is welcome, but these criminals are drawing PSNI resource away from preventing crime and detecting offenders across our policing area.
"Twenty five years on from the ceasefires, we shouldn't have to tolerate the activities of criminal gangs and organisations controlling communities and threatening public safety.
"I would urge anyone with any information to call the PSNI on 101 or 999, or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”
ENDS