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The Fountain memorial in Derry
Two separate attacks on war memorials in Londonderry are being treated as sectarian hate crimes after a banner and a poppy wreath were stolen from the sites in the city.
A 16-year-old boy was arrested on Monday evening in connection with a theft and criminal damage incident in The Fountain area, where a banner was reported stolen and a memorial display damaged over the weekend.
He has since been released on bail while further enquiries are carried out.
Meanwhile, police have launched a second investigation following the theft of a poppy wreath from The Cenotaph at The Diamond.
The wreath was reported stolen on Tuesday morning, with the incident believed to have taken place sometime between early Sunday afternoon and when it was discovered missing.
Both incidents are being treated as sectarian hate crimes.
The Fountain memorial in Derry
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A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police have appealed to anyone with information or relevant footage to contact them on 101, quoting reference 847 of 10/11/25 for the Fountain incident or 856 of 11/11/25 for the Cenotaph theft.”
Foyle MP Colum Eastwood MP the vandalism.
“At this time of year, there are many people in our community who take time out to reflect on the futility of violence and the sacrifices that their loved ones made to end war in Europe. It is a tradition that is a part of our city and a part of our island because it is important to those who we share our community with,” he said.
“The vandalism at the memorial in the Fountain was designed to cause hurt to our neighbours. It is more than just a few crosses kicked over and a banner stolen, it has contributed to a feeling that people who share our city and belong in our community aren’t wanted – that is desperately wrong.
“Derry is city rooted in reconciliation and respect for difference. This vandalism is an attack on those values. Those responsible need to wise up.”