The Police Service of Northern Ireland is treating the theft of three poppy wreaths and a Tommy soldier silhouette from a memorial in Newbuildings as a sectarian hate crime.

The items were taken from the Duncastle Road memorial at approximately 1.55am on Wednesday 15 July, police said. Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The incident follows the removal of four poppy wreaths from the Cenotaph in the Diamond area of Londonderry earlier in July after a Somme remembrance service. Those wreaths were later returned following community dialogue.

DUP Foyle MLA Julie Middleton described the attacks on memorials across the constituency as acts carried out by a bigoted minority intent on sowing division. She said those responsible would not silence or marginalise her community, and that their actions would not overshadow what had been a peaceful and positive Twelfth of July celebrated with pride and dignity.

Mrs Middleton welcomed the return of the wreaths taken from the Diamond and appealed for calm and respect for all cultures and identities. She stressed that nothing would be achieved through vandalism or intimidation, calling for positive leadership and respectful engagement across communities.

Anyone with information about the Newbuildings theft is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 716 of 15/07/26. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.