Several families have been forced to move out of their homes in Antrim, Northern Ireland, due to a recent spate of racist attacks. The incident involved anti-immigration posters and black X’s being spray-painted onto homes in Ballycraigy estate. Some properties had smashed windows, forcing the families to leave the area. The police have stated that they are investigating the matter as a hate crime, and a team of detectives has been assigned to the case as part of a robust investigation. The local neighbourhood policing team is also offering advice and offering reassurance to those affected by the incident.
One African woman who moved to Northern Ireland 20 months ago with her family to work in the health service said that the intimidation began in May with the erection of anti-immigrant posters in the area. The posters, which were taped to lamp posts, addressed landlords, housing associations, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. The posters read, “We have had enough of undesirables and immigrants being placed in our community. The time has come for locals only.” The woman stated that she thought it was directed at newcomers, like her family, and not specifically landlords in the area. After this time, the couple’s home, vehicle, and windows were vandalized, causing them to move away due to safety concerns.
Another woman living in the area who moved to Northern Ireland two years ago from Africa said she noticed the anti-immigration posters six weeks ago. She said that she woke up last Monday and found that her house was spray-painted with a black X. After she saw other houses targeted, she decided to leave the area with her family. Faith, another woman affected by the recent spate of attacks, found her car had been crushed, and a black X marked her home and belongings. She and her family are living in temporary accommodation and are too afraid to return to their previous home.
The PSNI has encouraged members of the public to speak with them, as it’s not solely a subject for the police to deal with. They have reiterated that they have a zero-tolerance policy regarding racist or sectarian behavior and will investigate it thoroughly. This despicable behavior will not be permitted, and anyone who engages in it will face the appropriate consequences. The local neighborhood policing force is also offering guidance and advice to those impacted by the attack, with the hope of providing reassurance that they are here to help in any way possible
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