In the early hours of Monday, a lorry, distinctively decorated in Armagh county colours, was set ablaze, leading police in Northern Ireland to investigate the event as a potential hate crime rooted in sectarianism. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) reported receiving news of two vehicle fires within the vicinity of Armagh on the same morning.
The PSNI was alerted about a lorry fire situated near Markethill Road at 1:35 in the morning, with images circulating on social media presenting an orange and white vehicle displaying the text ‘Armagh 4 Sam.’ Following closely, at 2:25 am, a car fire was reported on Ballymacnab Road.
According to PSNI, both events are considered as hate crimes with sectarian motives and potential arson, prompting further investigation. These incidents are not believed to be directly connected. Stunningly, Armagh just celebrated victory as All-Ireland senior football champions on Sunday, vanquishing Galway with a score of 1-11 to 0-13, staged at Croke Park.
PSNI is urging anyone with potent information or significant footage to assist in their investigations by reaching out to Northern Ireland police on 101, citing 127 of July 29th.