North Wales Police have warned that they may take action against people posting abusive and offensive signs, whose intention is to discourage people from travelling to the area during the current COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Police have said that some signs are clearly designed to cause offence because of the inflammatory nature of the language involved and that the signs are not appropriate. Police have also warned that where signs are aimed at being offensive and not simply advisory messages, they will be removed and seized and could be used as evidence of potential offences.
CI Mark Armstrong, Duty Silver officer, said: “Whilst we can understand the frustrations that local residents have around people who may be flouting the current travel restrictions, and may be attempting to travel to their second homes or holiday properties, it is not acceptable for people to use offensive or inflammatory language in their attempts to make these individuals unwelcome in our areas.
“This is a very worrying time for many, but I would encourage people to follow current guidance and not travel, whilst asking our local residents to be mindful that their attempts to discourage by the use of signs may see the need for NWP to conduct follow up action where offences are evident.
“We have a directed high visibility patrol operation working across North Wales over this Bank Holiday weekend, and will be attempting to engage with as many road users as possible, with the resources available to us. I would encourage people to Stay Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives.”
