Northern Ireland

Drug needles found after break-in at west Belfast church

<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; ">Needles were found in a Catholic church in west Belfast following a break-in</span>
Needles were found in a Catholic church in west Belfast following a break-in Needles were found in a Catholic church in west Belfast following a break-in

Needles have been found inside a Catholic church in west Belfast after an intruder smashed stained glass windows and broke into the building over the weekend.

The attack happened at St Paul's Church on the Falls Road at around 1.55am on Saturday.

Drug paraphenalia was discovered following the break-in.

A police spokesman said a person came into the church grounds via Cavendish Street.

The suspect, who was carrying a large black bin liner and small shopping bag, tried the building's doors and windows before smashing stained glass windows on the door of the side chapel.

Police said the drug paraphernalia has been seized for forensic analysis.

A spokesman said: "The suspect appears to have been of slim build, wearing a dark hooded top, a bobble hat underneath like, dark track bottoms and dark trainers".

"This act of vandalism is both disgusting and disrespectful.

"If you can assist us in any way in identifying the suspect involved in this incident, please contact Woodbourne Police by calling 101."