Police are appealing for information following an arson attack on an Orange Hall in the Eskey Road area of Craigavon.
A report was received this morning, Sunday, 26 June, that sometime overnight an oil tank was set on fire causing scorch damage to spouting and the gable wall of the Orange Hall.
DUP MLA Carla Lockhart said: “I am saddened to see such an attack on what is an excellent community facility in the area.
“These individuals involved in this attack must be identified and face the full rigours of the law. It is clear that they came prepared to burn the hall to the ground. I would encourage anyone with any information to come forward to the PSNI.”
UUP MLA Doug Beattie added: “It is clear the arson attack on Muckery Orange Hall near Derrystrasna was an attempt to deny one section of our community access to their culture and identity. I am in no doubt it is a minority who feel that such an attack is acceptable and therefore I call on the majority to assist the police in finding those responsible for such a wanton act of pure sectarianism.
“I am glad to see all those from across all our communities condemning this latest attack on the Loyal Orange Order. I know the Orange Order and particularly the lodge that met in Muckery Orange Hall will not be deterred by this attack and will continue to express their culture through the Orange Institution in the most positive way. I ask everyone to let the PSNI investigate this latest arson attack unhindered and refrain from any form of reprisals which will raise tensions and will be exactly what those responsible for the arson want.”
Inspector Lorraine Dobson would appeal to anyone who has any information about this incident to contact Police at Lurgan on the non-emergency number 101.
Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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