Graffiti attacks on Sunderland barbers condemned as police launch hate crime investigation
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It comes as a number of Turkish barber shops have been targeted by vile graffiti or notices, telling owners to “leave their shops” and that they are a “problem for people” in Sunderland.
The Echo understands that so far, Speedy Turkish Barber on Holmeside, Oscar Super Cutz on Fawcett Street, Jimmy's Barber Shop on Borough Road and Magic Scissors on Sea Road have all been subjected to the vile abuse.
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Hide AdIt is believed the businesses, which are all closed under the current lockdown restrictions, have been targeted overnight between Thursday, January 28 and Friday, January 29.
The graffiti across all shops says “leave your shop, your problem for people.”
One of the barbers who does not wish to be named said he has faced racism in his shop before.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Kim McGuinness, has vowed to crackdown on the minority in society who spread hate and divisions.
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Hide AdMs McGuinness said: “This really is sad to see. Vandalism is completely senseless and is particularly unacceptable if it’s racially aggravated.
"I know there will be extensive enquiries to catch those responsible. This is not something we are prepared to tolerate in Sunderland. We will continue to crackdown on the small minority who choose to spread hate where it isn’t wanted and it certainly isn’t wanted in our region.”
Sunderland Central MP Julie Elliott also condemned the vile graffiti.
She said: “This is absolutely unacceptable behaviour and it cannot be tolerated.
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Hide Ad“I would encourage anyone who has any information about these incidents to come forward, so that those responsible can be brought to justice.”
A Force spokesperson said: “We are aware of a number of reports of criminal damage involving businesses in the Holmeside, Grangetown and Fulwell areas of Sunderland.
“On each occasion, offensive graffiti has been sprayed onto the premises. An investigation has been launched into each of the incidents which are currently being treated as linked.
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Hide Ad“They are currently being treated as a suspected hate crime and anybody found to be responsible can expect to be dealt with swiftly and robustly.
“Enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting reference 1101 270121.”