Condemnation For Suspected Arson Attack On Antrim Business

Local representatives have hit out at those responsible for a suspected arson attack on a new Turkish barber shop in Antrim.

The blaze was started at the High Street premises on the evening of Monday 04 February and caused the business, which had just embarked on its second week of trading, to be completely gutted.

Three NIFRS crews were needed to contain the fire.

A UUP Councillor for the area, Jim Montgomery, said such an attack is not welcome in the town.

"Antrim needs more small businesses to open and help maintain the town centre as a welcoming and thriving place to visit and do business. The last thing we need is reckless arson attacks on any business premises, which could have serious consequences for passers-by or the emergency services.   

"I would encourage anyone who knows anything to contact PSNI so those that committed this attack can be brought before the courts and punished for their actions."

Mr Montgomery also praised the efficient work of the emergency services in response to the incident.

"I visited the scene on Monday night and saw first-hand the excellent work of the NIFRS and the Police who had brought the situation under control.

"Fortunately nobody was hurt although damage has been caused to both the barbers and neighbouring businesses."

Meanwhile, DUP MLA Trevor Clarke, and Pail Girvan, MP for south Antrim, also spoke out to condemn the "cowardly" act.

Mr Clarke welcomed the development of new businesses in the town and said the news of the destroyed Turkish barbers is "devastating".

"This could have had a major impact on adjoining retailers and therefore like any other right-minded person I appeal for anyone who seen anything, whether they believe it to be relevant or otherwise, to contact the PSNI.

"I totally condemn the actions of those who carried out the arson attack and hope that those responsible will be caught and prevent them from carrying out similar actions elsewhere."

Mr Girvan added: "This arson attack is a heinous act, depriving the owners of Antrim Turkish Barbers of not only their investment but their livelihoods.

"Arson is not a controllable action, those who committed this crime had no way to prevent the fire spreading to other properties. They not only showed contempt to Antrim Turkish Barbers, but also utter contempt for all the businesses on High Street. At a time when Antrim is losing a bank and a major retailer it is incredibly frustrating that a coward has decided to put this barber out of business."

The PSNI are not treating the incident as a hate crime at this stage, but are progressing with their investigation and have appealed to anyone who was in the High Street area between 7.30pm and 8pm on Monday 04 February to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 1282.



(JG/CM)