A Markethill phone shop has been plastered with racist graffiti for the second time in a week… and this time they are refusing to have it cleaned until police arrive on scene.
The premises in the Fairgreen area of the town was targeted for the first time on June 23 shortly after 8.15am.
It was reported that graffiti – with the words ‘Muslims Out’ – had been sprayed on the wall at the side of the building.
Well-meaning residents flocked to their aid and painted over the offensive mark, to spare owners the painful task.
Related: Racist graffiti sprayed on business premises in Markethill
Several people contacted Armagh I at the time to say the attack was not representative of the majority of residents in the area. They wished to show their support for the business owners and to reassure them, they are welcome.
Sadly, since then yet more graffiti has been sprayed across their premises. This time reading ‘Get Out’ with a target sign on the shop shutter and another mark directly targeting the shop owner, on the side wall of the building.
Speaking to Armagh I on the morning of the latest spate, one of the owners said this time they did not wish for the public to cover it up. Instead, they wanted police to see.
Again, residents contacted this publication to express their dissatisfaction at members of their local community being deliberately intimidated.
Police confirmed they are investigating a report of criminal damage caused to commercial premises in Markethill, which was reported this morning.
Shortly after 8.30am, it was reported that graffiti had been sprayed on the wall at the side of the building.
It was further reported at approximately 9.45am of similar graffiti on another property in the Markethill area.
It is understood the second property targeted is on Main Street and is currently under the management of a learning disability service and recruitment company known as ‘Good People’.
Four months ago the property was targeted in an arson attack which delayed opening of their facility for adults with learning disability.
Related: Arson attack at Markethill premises delays reopening of learning disability service, says owner
The graffiti at this building reads ‘Locals Only’ and ‘Landlords be warned’ with a target sign.
Both reports are being treated as a racially motivated hate crime, and officers are appealing for anyone who might have seen any suspicious activity in the area, or have any information which could assist with enquiries, to get in touch.
The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 311 of 30/06/26.
You can submit a report online using the witness appeal form at https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals
Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/
