Vandals '˜could have de-railed train' - PSNI

The thoughtless activities of vandals in Carrickfergus could potentially have de-railed a train, according to police.

Now the PSNI are appealing for information following an incident on the railway tracks at Clipperstown Halt in the town.

Police received a report that sometime between the evening of Saturday 18 March and the early hours of Sunday 19 March, stones were removed from walls around the station and thrown down steps onto the station platform.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Sergeant Emma Spence said: “This is such a potentially dangerous and foolhardy activity and those involved are putting their lives, and the lives of other rail users, at risk.

“If one of the stones had fallen onto the track, there is a possibility it could have derailed a train.

“The last thing any of us wants to see is a tragedy on our railways.”

Translink Inspector Colin Scott said: “Translink and NI Railways view trespass and vandalism extremely seriously, especially when it has the potential to endanger life, and we will work with the PSNI to pursue those responsible with a view to securing a conviction.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity or who has any information to contact them at Carrickfergus station on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 246 20/03/17. Or, 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.