Police have spoken to clarify allegations of “unacceptable policing” after several local representatives called unannounced visits to several Portadown properties into question.
According to residents in the Obins Street area, two officers called at properties around 8pm on August 23, asked to see passports, enquired whether the buildings were Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), and questioned how long people had been living at the addresses.
John O’Dowd MLA described the incidents as “unacceptable policing” and said urgent answers were needed.
Councillor Paul Duffy added: “Many of the residents affected are long-term members of the community who have lived and worked in the area for years , they do not deserve this kind of harassment.
“Racism has no place in our society, and it must be stamped out at every level.
“Sinn Féin is calling on the PSNI to explain the basis for these visits, who authorised them, and whether proper procedures were followed.”
Clarifying police measures on that evening, a PSNI spokesperson explained: “On Friday, 22nd August, police received a report regarding a social media post which referred to residential addresses in Portadown.
“Although no offences had been committed, the content of the post caused concern to the reporting person.
“On Saturday, 23rd August, neighbourhood policing officers called with residents at a number of the properties in order to check on their welfare.”
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Gary McCullough said: “Our officers provided crime prevention advice to the residents. We work hard to ensure that everyone in our diverse community feels safe and respected.
“We will continue to work alongside community representatives and partner agencies to provide support and guidance to all those who chose to make Portadown their home.”
It is understood the social media post has now been removed by its author.
