'Mindless damage': Anti-Covid vaccine graffiti sprayed at Bournemouth jab sites

Police are looking into two incidents of "mindless damage" which they believe are linked.

The force was called to reports that signs, paving stones, concrete areas and a building at the BIC had been sprayed with the graffiti relating to the current vaccination scheme that is underway there.

It is believed the damage was caused between 2am and 2.30am on Sunday, May 16. This was reported to police at 8.44am.

At 11.24am on Monday, May 17, a further report was received stating that a marquee at Westbourne Medical Centre, which is also hosting the COVID-19 vaccination programme, was spray painted with similar graffiti

The damage is said to have occurred just after midnight in the early hours of Sunday, May 16.

Officers are now appeal for witnesses to come forward after the criminal damage.

The force has also released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak with.

Sergeant Chris Vaughan, of Bournemouth police, said: “This mindless damage has caused great inconvenience to both centres at a time when the vaccination programme has had to step up a gear in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“A full investigation is underway into both incidents. We have obtained CCTV images of the suspect from the BIC incident and, although the quality is not very good, I would urge anyone who recognises this man to please contact Dorset Police.

“Finally, I would ask anyone who saw anything suspicious at either location at the relevant time to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210076730. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.