Derry PSNI investigating potential hate crimes at Bogside bonfire

Police in Derry say they have received a number of reports in relation to material placed on a bonfire in Meenan Square in the Bogside area of Derry.

They say these reports are being treated as hate crimes, and they are seeking to identify those responsible.

In a statement this morning, Derry City and Strabane Superintendent Willy Calderwood says potential offences include the theft and destruction of political material, flags, banners, and poppy wreaths.

He says as part of their enquiries, police have gathered and secured evidence of potential offending, and they will engage with the Public Prosecution Service.

He adds the vast majority of people celebrate their culture peacefully and lawfully, and do not want cultural celebrations to be undermined by anti-social behaviour, criminal activity or hate directed towards others.

He appeals to anyone with any further information, and specifically information on those who may have been responsible for the potential offences to come forward, either by contacting their local neighbourhood policing team or via Crimestoppers.

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