UPDATE: A sinister attack on the Alliance Party headquarters in Newtownabbey has sparked outrage and condemnation from party leader Naomi Long. The incident, which involved graffiti sprayed on external window and door shutters, was reported early on June 5, 2025, and is being treated as a sectarian hate crime by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
The attack occurred at the party’s office on Farmley Road in Glengormley and is believed to have happened in the days leading up to the report. Chief Superintendent Stephen Murray confirmed that a proactive criminal investigation has been launched, urging anyone with information or video footage to contact the police at 101, quoting reference 453 05/06/25.
In a strong statement, Long emphasized that such “reckless acts of intimidation” will not deter the Alliance Party from its mission to serve the people of Northern Ireland. “Those responsible for this attack were deliberately trying to incite fear and intimidation,” she remarked. “But we will remind them that these reckless acts will never deter Alliance.”
Long further highlighted the broader implications of this attack, linking it to a pattern of “abhorrent incidents” directed at politicians and political parties in recent months. She called for a collective effort to reduce the “toxic rhetoric” that has been permeating public discourse, stating, “It has a real-life impact and isn’t conducive to stability or people’s safety.”
This incident underscores the need for a united front against hate and intimidation in politics. Long expressed gratitude to the PSNI for their swift and professional response, reinforcing the importance of ensuring that elected officials can operate free from harassment.
As the investigation unfolds, the Alliance Party is calling on the community to stand together against such acts of violence, affirming that they will continue their work undeterred. The PSNI’s investigation will play a critical role in addressing this serious issue, and further updates are expected as the situation develops.
Stay tuned for more immediate updates on this developing story.
