06/02/2004

NIE issue warning following gunshot damage

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) has issued a safety warning after gunshots damaged overhead electricity equipment in north Belfast this week.

Residents in the Ballysillan and Ligoneil areas were affected on Wednesday following gunshot damage to overhead electricity equipment. The damage left customers without power for nearly six hours.

Ken McCracken, NIE Customer Relations Manager expressed concern at the incident. He said: “I cannot stress strongly enough the risk of electrocution these people take when they maliciously damage or interfere with electricity equipment.

"Vandalism of this nature could have potentially fatal consequences for both the vandals and other members of the public."

Anyone who witnesses such incidents are asked to contact NIE on 08457 643 643.

(MB)

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