An arson attack in south Belfast on Monday is being treated as a racially-motivated hate crime, police have said. A member of the public informed the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) just after 23:00 BST that a vehicle was on fire on Frenchpark Street. The occupants of the property were unharmed. The PSNI said that the fire is believed to have started from two sources. One is believed to be from a motorcycle outside the living room window of the property, which was deliberately set on fire, destroying the vehicle and burning the windows. The second fire is believed to have been set underneath a car, damaging the vehicle’s wheels and engine bay. MP for south Belfast Claire Hanna told BBC News NI that “ultimately, its yet another dent in the sense of security of lots of people of ethnic minorities in south Belfast”. “I’m furious, and I am frustrated. Just last week, many thousands of people across all neighbourhoods in Belfast, including this one, said very clearly that this isn’t the politics, atmosphere or approach we want,” she added. Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey described the attack as “absolutely appalling and disgusting”. She said that it was “not reflective of the majority of our community who embrace and welcome the huge positives of diversity in our society”. The PSNI called on the community to “not let these criminals hide amongst us”. In a statement Det Insp Angus said: “We are treating this as arson with intent to endanger life, with a racial hate motivation.” “We are grateful that those present in the property were uninjured, though we are very aware that we could potentially have been dealing with much more serious consequences this morning,” the officer said. Det Insp. Angus continued: “There is no place in our society for such behaviour. We will be tireless in our pursuit of those responsible for this, and any other, hate crime.” Police have appealed for anyone with information to contact them.
The Growing Fear in Belfast: Racist Attacks on the Rise
The recent incidents of racial hate crimes have sparked fear and anxiety among minorities in Belfast. A Syrian man living in Northern Ireland, Abdullah al-Masri, who fled his war-torn home for Belfast two years ago and now lives alone near Sandy Row, has expressed his fear for his safety after bricks were thrown through his front window, smashing his television and phone. He feels the attacks are targeted towards him due to his race and says, “I am worried they will come again and kill me in my bed. I am so scared.”
A City Divided: Condemnation and Calls for Action
These incidents have been met with widespread condemnation from political leaders and community members. SDLP councillor Gary McKeown expressed his disgust over the attacks, stating “Far too many members of our community are terrified after what has happened recently, and the ongoing pattern of intimidation that has been going on for years. I have spoken to people who are living in fear for their lives and are afraid to leave the house, but incidents like this mean that they aren’t even safe in their own homes.” He urged for clear and unequivocal condemnation of these attacks, demanding that those responsible face justice.
Beyond the Violence: A Look at the Statistics
The recent attacks are part of a wider trend of hate crimes in Northern Ireland. Statistics released by the Housing Executive revealed that 131 hate crime incidents were reported in the last year, with 22 reported in the first week of August alone. These attacks target not only tenants but also housing staff who are trying to help. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons condemned these acts, saying “There’s never any justification for violence and it should not be tolerated.”
A Cry for Help: Living in Constant Fear
The impact of these attacks on the lives of those targeted is profound. A Sudanese Muslim man, Abdullah Ali, who has lived in Northern Ireland with his family for seven years, has reported multiple attacks on his home, including windows being smashed, the front door being kicked in, and stones being thrown at both the house and himself. Due to the constant fear, Ali’s wife and son have moved to temporary accommodation in Newry, while he remains in the area, sleeping in a mosque. “I’ve discussed with my family—this area is not safe,” he said. “I cannot safely sleep here. When they threw stones, the police came, but no investigation, no solution.” Ali’s story highlights the desperation and helplessness many minorities feel in the face of such violence.
A City in Turmoil: A Call for Change
The recent attacks are a stark reminder of the deep-rooted societal issues that need to be addressed. The lack of safety and security felt by minorities underscores the urgent need for action. While condemning the perpetrators is essential, it is equally important to address the underlying causes of hate and discrimination and foster an environment of tolerance and inclusion. Only then can Belfast truly heal and become a place where everyone feels safe and welcome.
From the Ashes: A Hope for the Future
Despite the fear and uncertainty that have gripped Belfast, there is hope. The thousands who participated in the anti-racism protest last weekend demonstrated a powerful sense of unity and solidarity. Their message of love and acceptance resonated through the city, reminding everyone of the values that should bind us together. As Belfast navigates this turbulent time, it is essential to remember that the actions of a few do not define the city. The strength and resilience of the community will ultimately determine its future, and a future where diversity is embraced and celebrated is one worth striving for.
