01 May 2012

Craig Condemns Drug Dealing In Lisburn Following Suicide

Lagan Valley Assembly member, Jonathan Craig has condemned recent attacks and threats on a member of a local community in Lisburn following her stance against individuals involved in drugs.

The DUP member of the Policing Board also called on the PSNI and local community to work together to prevent further deaths and threats. The attack came following an incident where a young man took his own life, with residents in the Knockmore and Old Warren areas believing that those involved in the drug trade are ultimately responsible for this death and for other threats in the area.

Mr Craig said: "I have recently learned of the events which took place over the course of the weekend in Old Warren and Knockmore estates in Lisburn. This morning I met with local community representatives, the Police and the individual who received threats and attacks on her property. Unfortunately there has been an increasing drug problem within these estates in recent times.

"It is very disturbing that a young man’s involvement with drugs has led him to take his own life, but residents are determined to work positively to reduce the problems facing their community. I would hope that the individual whose car was attacked by these cowardly thugs will not be deterred from her work to improve the local area.

"The public outcries via social media has seen widespread support for the removal of drugs, and those who deal them from the local area. I believe that there are many vulnerable young people who have been drawn in by prominent individuals dealing in drugs. I would appeal to them to come to the local police and to bring to their attention those responsible before another life is lost in Lisburn."

(CD/GK)