Reaction: Paint thrown at Belfast Islamic Centre

Police are investigating a hate crime attack at the Islamic Centre in Belfast.
By The Newsroom
Published 6th Sep 2016, 15:06 BST
Updated 7th Sep 2016, 14:59 BST
A painter covers up paint which was thrown at the Belfast Islamic Centre in south Belfast on Monday nightA painter covers up paint which was thrown at the Belfast Islamic Centre in south Belfast on Monday night
A painter covers up paint which was thrown at the Belfast Islamic Centre in south Belfast on Monday night

The incident of criminal damage in Wellington Park took place last night.

A PSNI spokesman said red paint had been thrown over the front door of the property and was reported to them shortly after 11.35pm.

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The High Sheriff of Belfast, Alderman Jim Rodgers, has said that those responsible for the paint attack on the Belfast Islamic Centre should heed the message that their intolerance is unwelcome in the city.

Belfast Islamic CentreBelfast Islamic Centre
Belfast Islamic Centre

Alderman Jim Rodgers said: “This is a totally hateful attack and my thoughts are with all at the Islamic Centre. The BIC contributes greatly to Belfast and there should be zero tolerance of this act of intimidation against them.

“Those responsible need to heed the message that their intolerance is totally unwelcome in this city. Anyone with information should contact the PSNI immediately so they face the consequences of their actions.”

South Belfast DUP MLA Christopher Stalford also condemned those responsible for a paint attack saying it was “a disgusting attack on a centre which contributes so much to the South Belfast area”.

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“The centre do a good work in the community and is entirely in contrast to the motives of the people involved in this attack.

Belfast Islamic CentreBelfast Islamic Centre
Belfast Islamic Centre

“I utterly condemn those responsible. It saddens me that individuals feel they need to undo good community relationships. Their despicable actions have no place here.

“I would urge anyone with any information to contact the PSNI.”

Sinn Féin MLA Máirtín Ó Muilleoir who slammed those behind the attack said: “I have spoken to representatives in the centre and wish to put on the record my utter condemnation of this hate crime.

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“These attacks are despicable and I appeal for anyone with information to contact the police.”

A PSNI spokesman appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone who has any information that can assist with the investigation to contact police at Lisburn Road on 101 quoting reference number 235 of 06/09/16.

Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Related topics:Jim RodgersPSNIPolice