A community bus window was smashed and stones hurled at passing traffic in Bessbrook this week, prompting warnings that vital local services could be withdrawn if the attacks continue.
Sinn Féin councillor Declan Murphy said the window of the Busy Bus travelling along the Green Road was “smashed”, adding: “Passengers had to take cover. If this type of activity persists this bus service will be pulled.
“If anyone has information regarding those responsible for smashing the window can you please PM me. The parents of those responsible must be held to account also.”
Fellow Sinn Féin councillor Aidan Mathers condemned the incident, saying: “Local people need to speak out against this anti‑community activity. A small number of youth engaged in this attack should not be allowed to hinder the people who rely on this service.”
Residents have also reported a pattern of similar incidents in the area.
One woman said her car had been damaged “a few weeks ago” by “young male… brats… firing stones at cars”, while another man said of those involved: “They are running around unchallenged getting away with it all the time.”
Another local man branded the behaviour “unacceptable anti‑social behaviour, that has to be stamped out”, adding: “Parents must be held accountable for the vile actions of their offspring. Somebody could have been badly injured or even killed today. This disgusting behaviour cannot be allowed to become the norm.”
Meanwhile, police have confirmed they are investigating stone‑throwing at vehicles in the area this week.
A PSNI spokesperson said officers in Bessbrook received a report of anti‑social behaviour in the Dobsons Way area on Wednesday evening, October 14.
Inspector Browne said: “At approximately 10.05pm, a report was received of a group of youths throwing stones at passing vehicles. Officers attended but were unable to locate the individuals involved.
“Thankfully, there was no reports of any injuries. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances of what happened and who was involved.
“I would ask parents and guardians to speak with their young people about where they are and who they’re with, and to warn them of the dangers of getting involved in this type of behaviour. Ultimately, they could end up with a criminal record which may impact their future employment and travel prospects.”
Police are appealing to anyone who saw anything, or who may have dash‑cam, ring‑doorbell or other footage, to contact them using the witness appeal form at https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals quoting reference 1591 14/10/26, or by calling 101.
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.
