PSNI Appeal For Information On Three Arson Attacks

The PSNI have issued an appeal for information and witnesses to arson attacks in L'Derry, Ballywalter and Newtownards.

Shortly before 6.55pm on Saturday 29 April, police responded to reports of a fire at a business premises in the Ferryguay Street area of L'Derry.

Fire damage was caused to the toiletries section, with staff and customers evacuated from the shop as Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service dealt with the fire. There were no reports of any injuries, with smoke damage also caused to the shop following the incident.

Inspector Craig said: "Two young males were seen in the area at the time of the incident. The first male is described as wearing a dark coloured tracksuit top and trousers, with short dark hair. The second male is described as wearing dark clothing, with short dark hair and wearing a green camouflage style jacket with an orange inner lining.

"Enquiries are continuing and police would appeal to anyone with any information is asked to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 1573 29/04/23."

Separately, police are also investigating two arson attacks in County Down in the early hours of Monday 1st May.

Inspector Hanna said: "At approximately 12.55am, we received a report that a car had been set alight and destroyed in the Main Street area of Ballywalter.

"At approximately 1am, we received a second report that a petrol bomb had been thrown at a car parked in the driveway of a property in the Weavers Grange area of Newtownards.

"It is extremely fortunate that no one was injured in what can only be described as reckless attacks that could have resulted in more serious consequences.

"Both incidents are being treated as arson and officers are investigating a number of lines of enquiry in relation to the fires.

"Anyone who may have seen anyone suspicious in the area at the time of the fire or anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage that could assist with enquiries is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 77 of 01/05/23."

A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/.