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As much as £3,000 worth of damage has been caused to four Translink platforms by vandals.

The incidents happened across West Belfast over the weekend.

Vending machines and ticket validators were smashed in the Colin Connect, Upper Dunmurry Lane, McKinstry Road and Twinbrook Road.

Sinn Fein Councillor Daniel Baker said: "All of the incidents have been passed onto the PSNI along with CCTV footage, the total cost is over £3K.

"These incidents are detrimental to the service provided by Translink.

"I want to appeal to those involved in these mindless acts of vandalism, this could result in a criminal conviction that could have an impact on your life later down the line.

"Please stop and think about your actions."

In a statement, Translink described it as 'completely unacceptable'.

A spokeswoman said: " In total, six ticket vending machines and four validators have been damaged since Saturday evening.

"There has also been damage to three halt shelters and Beechmount, Children’s Hospital and College Square East in the same period of time.

“Vandalism of Glider ticketing equipment inconveniences customers and increases service operating costs so it is very disappointing to see the machines being damaged.

"These attacks are detrimental to the service we provide, with the local community ultimately suffering.

“Repairs have been carried out to all Ticket Vending Machines and the validators will be fixed as soon as possible. Until then, passengers should use the second validator at the halt to ensure they have tapped their card for their journey.

“We are working with the PSNI and local community representatives to prevent any further acts of vandalism so we can maintain the high calibre of service our customers deserve.

“We thoroughly condemn this kind of anti-social activity and operate a cash reward scheme offering up to £1000 to any member of the public who witnesses any incident of vandalism against our vehicles or property and is prepared to give evidence in court, resulting in a conviction.”

Police confirmed that they are looking into the incident.

A spokesman said: " Police received a report of criminal damage to ticket machines at a number of Glider Stops in West Belfast on Monday 5 November.

"Machines were reported to have been damaged at Upper Dunmurry Lane, McKinstry Road, Lagmore, Twinbrook Road and the Colin Connect Stop sometime between Saturday 3 and Monday November 5.

"Anyone with any information should contact police on 101 and quote reference number 299 05/11/18."

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