Residents and pets at NI block of flats ‘petrified’ after children throw fireworks into hallway

The attack last night in Craigavon follows as spate of incidents using fireworks across Craigavon, Portadown and Lurgan in recent weeks.

Nearby community organisation Meadowbrook Residents Association said those living in Aldervale Flats are calling on the young people throwing fireworks into the hallways and landings to stop.

In an online post the group said: “There’s disabled and vulnerable people living there and also they have wee pets who are now petrified . Away and catch a grip of yourselves!”

Sinn Fein Cllr Paul Duffy warned that teenagers and young adults are also deliberately throwing fireworks at each other.

He said: “I would urge these young people to think of what they are doing. There are serious consequences of a firework accident such as life change damage to your hand or someone’s face.

“These incidents are happening right across the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council Borough and further afield.

“It seems most of these fire works are being bought illegally and not through proper licensed suppliers which heightens the risk further.

“Therefore people selling these illegal fireworks will also be held responsible for their part in causing any injuries.

“The health services are at their limits with the Covid pandemic and can do without unnecessary burn cases.

“Please act responsibly around fireworks in the coming weeks and be mindful of the fireworks code and the restrictions around the covid pandemic.”

Youth Service Teams ‘out on the ground’ after spike in anti-social behaviour Read here: https://www.portadowntimes.co.uk/news/crime/youth-service-teams-out-ground-after-spike-anti-social-behaviour-3012296

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