Clonezone, an adult book and novelty store in Manchester that caters to the LGBTQ+ community, was attacked for the third time in six weeks. The store was vandalized with a hammer by two masked individuals on a pink or distinctive-looking red motorcycle. This follows two previous similar attacks on the store, which the police now describe as targeted.
In a statement, the Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the attack was a targeted act of vandalism against the store. Police are currently investigating the incidents and have released CCTV images of the most recent attack. They are urging anyone with information to come forward, including those who may have seen the distinctive-looking motorcycle.
Clonezone expressed its disappointment with the police response, stating that they had failed to prevent the attacks from continuing to happen. The store took to social media to express its heartbreak at the attacks, with the LGBTQ+ community standing in solidarity with them.
Chief Inspector Wignall of the Greater Manchester Police said that they will not tolerate such mindless acts of vandalism in the city. He also added that the police have increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the local community and shop owners.
The targeted attacks on Clonezone are a disturbing reminder of the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community. The attacks are not only an assault on a particular store but on the entire community it serves. It is vital that the police take swift and effective action to bring the perpetrators to justice and send a clear message that such hateful acts will not be tolerated.
In the meantime, the LGBTQ+ community must continue to support Clonezone and other businesses like it, sending a clear message that hate will not win.
