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Racist, sexist and anti-LGBTQ messages smeared across Sidney

Sidney/North Saanich RCMP investigating string of graffiti incidents
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Sidney/North Saanich RCMP believe multiple individuals are responsible for the graffiti, including one case depicting sexual, racist and anti-LGBTQ comments featuring swastikas. (Black Press Media file photo)

After a string of graffiti incidents, including one case depicting sexual, racist and anti-LGBTQ comments featuring swastikas, the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in finding the culprits.

Cpl. Andres Sanchez said in a release that police believe several individuals are responsible for the graffiti incidents, which are described as ongoing.

“I am appalled by some of the vile and racist comments that I have seen spray-painted on our local buildings,” he said in a statement. “There is a difference between street art and the blatant defacing of property in a malicious way. These acts do not represent the values our community holds toward any group.

The graffiti has appeared on spots around several popular locations in Sidney.

“The offensive material took place on the evening of April 1 at Tanner’s Books and at the United Carpets buildings,” said Sanchez, adding that the other incidents happened at Tulista Park.

“There are no suspects at this point, police are looking for witnesses or anyone who can identify the tags or writing style.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sidney/North Saanich RCMP at 250-656-3931.

wolfgang.depner @peninsulanewsreview.com



Wolf Depner

About the Author: Wolf Depner

I joined the national team with Black Press Media in 2023 from the Peninsula News Review, where I had reported on Vancouver Island's Saanich Peninsula since 2019.
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