Anger after Union flags stolen from Co Derry war memorial

Four Union flags have been stolen from a war memorial in Co Derry.

Police are investigating the overnight theft and damage caused to flag poles at the war memorial (pictured) in the Diamond area of Kilrea.

Police said the theft was reported just after 3.00am.

The local Orange District, which is responsible for the decoration of the war tribute ahead of the Twelfth, said the incident was “deeply offensive” to unionists.

A spokesperson said: “This was a deplorable act carried out under the cover of darkness. Such war tributes should be sacrosanct and those responsible ought to be ashamed of their actions.

“Their wickedness is deeply offensive not only to unionists, but the wider community in Kilrea and the surrounding area, and more so the memory of those who fought in two World Wars.”

“While these flags will quite rightly be replaced, we would appeal for anyone with information regarding this incident to contact police immediately.”

During the week, a Union flag was stolen the roof of an Orange hall in Dungiven.

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