NI Councillors Condemn Newtownabbey Hate Crime

Elected representatives from Northern Ireland have responded to the news of a hate crime in Newtownabbey, in which five men were attacked with baseball bats.

The victims, who are all originally from Romania, were assaulted during an aggravated burglary of a house in Hollybank Drive at around 8.20pm on Sunday 06 January.

One of the men was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries.

Police are investigating a hate motive for the attack.

Alliance councillor Tom Campbell has hit out at those responsible and extended his thoughts to the victims.

He said: "This incident was absolutely disgusting and must have been absolutely terrifying for the victims.

"My thoughts are with them, as will be the thoughts of people in the area, who will rightly be shocked by this heinous crime. I wish the man injured a speedy recovery.

"Everyone has the right to live or visit here without fear, and I would urge anyone with information on this serious assault to contact police with it immediately so those behind it can be brought to justice as soon as possible."

Meanwhile, Sinn Fein councillor Michael Goodman has spoken out to "strongly condemn" those behind the suspected hate crime.

"There can be no place for racism or any other forms of discrimination in our society," he explained. 

"I would urge anyone with information on this incident to bring it forward to the PSNI."

In addition, SDLP councillor for the Glengormley area, Noreen McClelland, has denounced the vicious assault.

She said: "Under no uncertain terms can such a brutal attack be justified. There is no place for violence in our society, and those who are responsible for this assault must face the full force of the law."

Mrs McClelland also urged anyone with information to come forward to police, or alternatively to get in touch via Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 which is a fully anonymous service.



(JG/CM)