Police in County Antrim are investigating a possible link between two sectarian hate crimes in Rasharkin after graffiti was sprayed on a GAA club and an Orange Hall on Sunday 7 June.

The first incident was reported earlier on Sunday at St Mary’s GAC on Townhill Road, where graffiti was sprayed on the club gates. A second incident, at Rasharkin Orange Hall on Main Street, was reported shortly before 11pm. The Police Service of Northern Ireland said both reports are being treated as sectarian hate crimes and that enquiries are ongoing. Inspector Hamilton appealed for witnesses or footage, quoting reference number 1564 of 07/06/26.

St Mary’s Rasharkin GAC issued a statement acknowledging the graffiti. It described sectarian graffiti as wrong and said the club provides an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds. The club added that the incident was particularly disappointing as hundreds of young people had been taking part in activities at the club that weekend.

A spokesman for the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland condemned attacks on Orange Halls and said such incidents were normal at this time of year. The statement called for anyone with information to contact the PSNI.

Political representatives across the community condemned the attacks. TUV councillor Jonathan McAuley said he was disgusted and that CCTV footage showed individuals spraying graffiti and laughing. He said the minority unionist community had faced such attacks for decades. North Antrim MP Jim Allister described the graffiti on the Orange Hall as pro-IRA and an attempt to intimidate the unionist community. TUV MLA Timothy Gaston said he would raise concerns with police and seek additional patrols ahead of the marching season. DUP MLA Paul Frew called the incidents sinister and said residents had previously raised concerns about policing resources.

Sinn Fein MLA Philip McGuigan also condemned both attacks. He said people in Rasharkin were angry that their GAA club was targeted with sectarian graffiti, and he described the club as a positive community hub. He also condemned the attack on the Orange Hall, stating that sectarianism is wrong regardless of its source.

Police continue to investigate and have asked anyone with information to come forward.