Outrage expressed by MPs after police officers responded to a report of wilful damage at Empire Grocery on North Shore Road another around 6:30am this morning, to find offensive graffiti splashed all over the front of the building described as “vile and threatening, homophobic and racist”.

Graffiti was also reported at another nearby business around 8:30am this morning.

A police spokesman said it was “documented” and that “reassurance” was “provided to the staff of both businesses”.

In a statement issued this morning, Deputy Premier and MP for Constituency 15, Pembroke East, Walter Roban condemned what he termed the “acts of community disrespect” after residents and commuters of “awoke this morning to the sight of slanderous graffiti on the walls of neighbourhood businesses”.

As the Parliamentary representative for this constituency, he said: “The owners, workers and patrons of these establishments deserve respect and I am outraged by such behaviour.

“It is important that we voice our views and opinions in a respectful manner and do not partake in efforts to use vandalism to voice our views.

“Any persons who may have witnessed this act, please report it to the Bermuda Police Service to investigate further; this behaviour will not be tolerated,” he added.

Meanwhile, One Bermuda Alliance Leader, Craig Cannonier, has today condemned as “vile” and threatening, homophobic and racist graffiti painted on the side of a building in Devonshire.
“This kind of thing has no place in our society,” said Mr Cannonier. “I am appalled that this could happen in Bermuda and I would urge members of the community who know anything about this vile act to inform the police. This is not the first time we have seen this kind of thing and it has to stop.”

Police inquiries are now underway regarding this incident and any witnesses or members of the public with relevant information are encouraged to call the main police telephone number 295-0011 at the earliest opportunity.