Derry snowball gangs urged to 'catch yourselves on' after drivers targeted

SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan warned that those behind a series of incidents in the city over the past few days that there actions could result in a serious accident.

In a video post earlier in the week, Mr Durkan said: "It’s another snow day here in Derry and with most of the schools off there is going to be lots of young people, naturally enough, going out to enjoy the snow with their friends. And while it is brilliant to see young people out having fun, building snowmen, having snow fights and sledding it’s not so good to see groups of young people attacking cars and houses with snowballs, particularly cars.

"I was inundated with complaints last night from people right across the city who have been driving along in these really treacherous, dangerous conditions only to come under attack from gangs of youths firing snowballs at vehicles.

"Some people had windscreens broken but it could be much worse than that. It wouldn’t take much for someone to veer off the road, to crash, causing serious injury or worse.”

Mr Durkan said that everyone was young once and rather than just condemn young people involved in this, he was appealing to them about the risks associated with what they are doing. He urged them to consider the consequences and ‘catch yourselves on’.

In a separate message for parents, Mr Durkan added: “It's treacherous enough driving in these conditions without having to run the gauntlet of snowball-throwing youths.

“Please have a word with your children and teenagers and educate them about the risks of such behaviour. I know many young ones will think it's just a bit of harmless fun and a chance to get a good cheevie but the consequences could be fatal.”

Meanwhile Sinn Féin Councillor Sandra Duffy posted that she had personally witnessed “youths with snowballs out in force” in the Skeoge area.

"This is really frightening people and will cause an accident when conditions are already bad.

“Please have a word with your kids, it’s really not funny or a bit of craic.”

There have been similar reports across the city over recent days.

Curryneirin Community Association posted: “This isn’t about being a killjoy. But there have been several complaints about snowballs being thrown. Damage to property and children being hurt.

“While we understand people are enjoying the snow, this behaviour needs to stop.

“Please be respectful of others and help keep the community safe and welcoming for everyone.”