Ballyclare fire: Appeal for information on arson attack at licensed premises on Ballyclare Road in 'racially motivated hate crime'

Detectives are appealing for information following a report of arson which occurred at licenced premises at the Ballyclare Road area of Newtownabbey on Wednesday 21st August.

In a statement PSNI Detective Sergeant Crothers said: “At around 1:50am, it was reported that a property was set light in the area.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 21st August 2024The scene on the Ballyclare Road, Ballyclare as an earlier fire at premises in the had reignited. The restaurant has suffered significant damage following a racially motivated arson attack.Picture by Matt Mackey / PressEyeplaceholder image
Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 21st August 2024The scene on the Ballyclare Road, Ballyclare as an earlier fire at premises in the had reignited. The restaurant has suffered significant damage following a racially motivated arson attack.Picture by Matt Mackey / PressEye

"Graffiti was also reported on the premises following the incident.

"Colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service attended and dealt with the fire, which is being treated as deliberate ignition.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 21st August 2024The scene on the Ballyclare Road, Ballyclare as an earlier fire at premises in the had reignited. The restaurant has suffered significant damage following a racially motivated arson attack.Picture by Matt Mackey / PressEyeplaceholder image
Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 21st August 2024The scene on the Ballyclare Road, Ballyclare as an earlier fire at premises in the had reignited. The restaurant has suffered significant damage following a racially motivated arson attack.Picture by Matt Mackey / PressEye

“Enquiries are continuing and at this stage, the incident is being treated as a racially motivated hate crime.

“The Ballyclare Road remains closed as a fire at the premises has reignited.

“Police would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to the incident, to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference number 68 21/08/24. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”

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