PSNI Chief Inspector Tony Callaghan.
Police in Derry have appealed to those attending tonight’s Hallowe’en celebrations to mark the activities “sensibly and safely.”
Chief Inspector Tony Callaghan, the Foyle Area Commander, has revealed measures have been put in place to deal with incidents of criminal damage and anyone caught breaking the law would be dealt with “robustly.”
He said: “Halloween is a busy time of the year for police. We often receive reports of criminal damage and youths causing annoyance to vulnerable people within the area.
“I would ask parents to make sure they know the whereabouts of their children and to make sure that they are not engaging in any criminal activity or criminal damage to property.”
Individuals are also being urged to pay close attention to their own personal safety, if they intend to be in the vicinity of fireworks, sparklers or bonfires.
Fireworks contain explosive, flammable substances, which can cause serious injury to an individual or damage to property. Children using sparklers should also be closely supervised.
CI Callaghan added: “We have high visibility patrols operating in hotspot areas to prevent crimes occurring.
“What might seem like a prank to some young people may actually amount to carrying out an assault or causing criminal damage.”
He concluded: “Those involved in this type of behaviour will have to face the consequences.”
