Detective Sergeant Brian Reid said: “We believe at this time that entry was forced through a window at the rear of the property and that accelerant has then been used to start the fire which has left the building extensively damaged. An investigation is underway and we are treating the incident as a hate crime.“I would appeal to anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the Aghagaskin Road area on Sunday, or who captured dash-cam footage from the area which could assist us with our investigation, to contact detectives at Cookstown on 101, quoting reference number 1480 30/10/22. A report can be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”
1. 31st October 2022 General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Mandatory Credit Presseye/Stephen Hamilton
General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Photo: Presseye/Stephen Hamilton
2. 31st October 2022 General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Mandatory Credit Presseye/Stephen Hamilton
General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Photo: Presseye/Stephen Hamilton
3. 31st October 2022 General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Mandatory Credit Presseye/Stephen Hamilton
General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Photo: Presseye/Stephen Hamilton
4. 31st October 2022 General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Mandatory Credit Presseye/Stephen Hamilton
General views of the Ballynougher Orange Hall on the Aghagaksin Road near Magherafelt which was set on fire last night and totally destroyed. Photo: Presseye/Stephen Hamilton