Police in Northern Ireland are investigating a racist incident in the Fountain Estate area of Londonderry after a Sudanese family’s home was vandalised with abusive phrases and threatening symbols painted on its walls. Despite the shock, the family says they will not leave their home and will not allow fear to dictate their lives, stressing their commitment to the community that welcomed them when they arrived in December 2024.
Speaking to media, Hala Ahmed, a mother of four, said the racist messages would not drive them out. “I am happy to stay here. Fountain is our first choice and we will remain here. There are good people who support us.” She explained that the family moved directly from the airport to Fountain, where they lived peacefully and integrated into the local community before recently relocating to a new home in the same area.
Children’s shock
The family’s daughter was on her way to school when she saw the writing and called her mother in tears. “My daughter was crying… it terrified me. We have never seen anything like this before,” Hala said. The graffiti included the phrase “locals only” alongside a targeting symbol aimed at the house, prompting police to treat the incident as a racially motivated hate crime. Police believe the attack took place at night and urged residents to share any CCTV footage or information that might help identify those responsible.
Police and community response
Inspector Michael Jahan said, “What happened is completely unacceptable. Everyone deserves to live without fear or intimidation.” Community worker Janet Wark, who runs the Cathedral Youth Club, expressed deep sadness, describing the Sudanese family as an asset to the local community. “Hala and her family are a treasure to this community. Whoever did this should meet them to understand their value,” she said.
The family is well known for volunteering at the local youth club and taking part in community activities. The North West Migrants Forum condemned the attack as “disgusting” and pledged full support to the family, urging politicians to issue firm and clear condemnation of the racist act.
Local MPs and party leaders quickly denounced the incident. Colum Eastwood of the SDLP called it “a hateful attack,” adding, “People who come to our city and contribute to our community deserve peace. Those responsible must be held accountable.” Gary Middleton of the DUP described it as “a cowardly act of intimidation,” stressing that the perpetrators “do not represent the community or the city.” The group United Against Racism also condemned the graffiti as “a threat that requires a strong community response.”
Determination to stay
Despite the trauma, Hala Ahmed insisted she does not feel like an outsider in the area. “I consider myself local. We are part of this community and we will remain so.” A spokesperson for the ministry, Karen McCall, said she had met the family previously and added, “They are wonderful people who contribute so much to the community. Derry welcomes everyone, no matter where they come from.”
