Police appealing for witnesses after mini-bus found burnt out in Derry

Police in Derry are appealing for witnesses and information to a report of vehicle theft in the city. 

A white Ford Transit minibus is reported to have been stolen from the Bards Hill area, in the vicinity of Camelia Court, either late last night, January 29 or during the early hours of today, January 30.

The vehicle was found completely burnt out in the Creggan Heights area this morning. 

Also this morning, police received a report of a vehicle parked in Campion Court that was discovered to have been ransacked.

While making enquiries, officers discovered two other vehicles - one in Campion Court and one in Bards Hill, near the Camelia Court area - had also been ransacked.

Police are appealing for witnesses and information about these incidents and appeal to anyone who was in these areas and saw any suspicious activity, or has relevant footage that could assist their investigation, to get in contact via 101, quoting reference 232 of 30/01/26 or 276 of 30/01/26. 

Police also appeal to anyone with dashcam footage which many have captured the movements of the white Ford Transit to contact police.

The number to call with information is 101. 

You can also submit a report online via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or, you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/

Condemning the attack, Waterside Sinn Féin councillor Christopher Jackson said: "This mini bus was owned by local businessmen who are never found wanting when it comes to supporting local community organisations or events throughout the city and the actions of mindless thugs are in no way reflective on how we value their contribution to society.

“We won’t tolerate attacks on our community and anyone with any information at all should bring it to the attention of the police.”

Waterside GAA club Doire Trasna posted on social media: "We’re deeply saddened to hear that a minibus was stolen from a member of our community and burned out last night. This minibus has been used time and again to support the wider community, from community events to schools and local sports clubs.

"The owner has always been more than supportive of our club and of community initiatives. This act has impacted far more than just one person, it has impacted our community.

"If anyone has any information, no matter how small, we ask that you bring it directly to the owner of the bus. Any help would be greatly appreciated."