SINN FÉIN vice-president Michelle O’Neill has condemned an arson attack at the home of a Sinn Féin councillor that saw his car set on fire.
A Renault Megane belonging to Councillor Kevin Campbell, a former mayor of Derry, was discovered ablaze at around 2.45am.
Three people were seen running away from the scene in the Creggan area of the city.
Ms O’Neill, leader of Sinn Féin in Northern Ireland, said the perpetrators should be ashamed.
“I wholeheartedly condemn the attack on the home of Cllr Kevin Campbell in Derry last night,” she said.
“Those responsible should be ashamed of themselves.
“Attacking the home of a committed community activist serves no cause.
“This type of action needs to be condemned by all.”
'We will not be dragged back to the past'
SDLP leader Colum Campbell also condemned the attack, saying: “We will not be dragged back to the past.
“Public representatives have a mandate from the community to serve local people.
“Those responsible for these actions do not speak for our community.
“Anyone with any information should go immediately to the police.
“Our thoughts are with Cllr Campbell and his family.”
The PSNI have appealed for witnesses as they continue to establish a motive for the attack.
Anyone with information should contact Strand Road Police Station on 101 quoting reference 249 08/04/18, or call the confidential Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
A solidarity vigil has been planned for tonight at 7pm at Lislane Drive, close to Cllr Campbell’s home.
Meanwhile people have been expressing their support for the councillor and his family.
Thoughts & solidarity with our friends Kevin, Deirdre & Grainne Campbell. Kevin is a life long republican, was in jail and for many years now has worked tirelessly for his community.The scum that carried out this attack couldn't lace the boots of Kevin Campbell!! @CllrKCampbell pic.twitter.com/3r48uiYWAU
— Karen Mullan (@k_mullan) April 8, 2018
Solidarity with Kevin Campbell, Deirdre and Grainne after last nights attack on their family home. Tonight at 7 we will stand shoulder to shoulder in support of our friend who works tirelessly for us all. #Istandwithkevin
— Fiachra McGuinness (@fiachramcg) April 8, 2018
We would like to send our solidarity to @DerrySinnFein Cllr Kevin Campbell & his family after thugs set fire to their car.
Kevin is lifelong and dedicated republican who works tirelessly better the lives of everyone in the community and we stand firmly with him and his family.
— Cairde na hÉireann (@CNEScotland) April 8, 2018
Solidarity with Kevin, Deirdre and Gráinne. Take no step backwards, step forward and do our best for those we represent. That’s Kevin Campbell! pic.twitter.com/GGUzWaDuFA
— Raymond McCartney (@RaymondMcCartn1) April 8, 2018
Disgraceful attack on Kevin Campbell's car. An attack on any public representative is an attack on democracy itself.
— Colum Eastwood (@columeastwood) April 8, 2018
Disgraceful attack at the home of Cllr Kevin Campbell. My thoughts are with Kevin and his family at this time. https://t.co/B5HC1TZqQc
— Brian Tierney (@Tierney091) April 8, 2018
