RESIDENTS are ‘living in fear’ as reports of anti- social behaviour in Lincluden have increased.
Kids in the area have been seen riding bikes on the roof of the primary school, setting fires, leaving broken glass in sandpits and leaving obscene graffiti.
Neighbours in the area – who wish to remain anonymous – have said they fear their personal property will targeted by vandals, as residents have re- ported that their car wing mirrors have been smashed, and even a car turned upside down.
One woman in her 70s, admit- ted she is too afraid to report youths engaging in vandalism to the police, after her home was targeted by the group.
Shortly after phoning 101 on the vandals, a brick was thrown through her front window.
Addressing the issue North West Dumfries councillor Andy Ferguson said: “I think it’s a very small minority who are causing a great deal of upheaval for the vast majority, but I don’t think we’re in a situation here which is escalating out of control.
“We all recognise that this is everybody’s problem and we’re going to have to deal with this as a community.
“We really need to get to the bottom of this before somebody gets seriously hurt or there’s major damage to property.”
Police Scotland confirmed that they are increasing pro-active patrols in the area to discourage further vandalism. Local area commander, chief inspector Robin Ferguson said: “We re- quire the support of the community and I would urge anyone with information that could help us to trace those responsible for this kind of anti-social behaviour to speak to officers or to call us via 101. I would also ask parents and guardians to assist and to be aware of where their youngsters are.”
It comes after concerned parents and nearby neighbours have photographed and shared videos online of youths on top of Lincluden Primary School and the mess they’ve caused in the grounds three weeks ago.
Primary headteacher Andrea McFarlane has been working with Police Scotland to try and address the vandalism at the school.
