Barclays Bank on Northumberland Street in Newcastle had to shut down due to vandalism that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The bank was covered in red paint and had its doors and windows damaged with a hammer by two men. This incident is part of a series of protests against Barclays, with activists calling on the bank to sever ties with Israeli companies involved in the weapons trade and fossil fuels.
As a result of the vandalism, the bank put up a notice apologizing for the closure and directing customers to their nearest branch in Cramlington. Barclays spokesperson stated that they are cooperating with the police investigation and highlighted their commitment to providing financial services to defense companies for the safety of the country and its allies.
Northumbria Police are currently conducting inquiries into the incident and are seeking information from the public. Anyone with information is urged to contact them through various channels. The police emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the need for community involvement in solving such cases.
This act of vandalism not only disrupts the bank’s operations but also raises concerns about the safety of the staff and customers. The repeated targeting of Barclays branches by protest groups is a cause for alarm, leading the bank to enhance security measures to protect against future incidents.
In light of this incident, it is important for businesses to be vigilant and prepared for potential threats to their operations. Proper security protocols and cooperation with law enforcement are crucial in ensuring the safety and security of employees and customers.
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