Police are investigating following a report of racially-motivated arson in north Belfast in the early hours of Saturday, 6th June.

Superintendent Finola Dornan said: “Just after 2.45am, we received a report from our colleagues in Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service that they were attending a fire at an old Gospel Hall on the Shankill Road.

“On police arrival, Fire Service confirmed that the fire had been caused by deliberate ignition to the roof.  The building had been totally gutted by the blaze.

“Our detectives have begun carrying out enquiries and the community will see a police presence in the area today.”

Superintendent Dornan continued: “This out-of-use building had been bought by legitimate business people who would have brought jobs to the local community and, as with any crime motivated by hate, we will be providing them with an enhanced level of supervision, investigation and support.  

“As a Police Service, we do not underestimate the impact hate-related crimes have on victims, their families and wider communities. While we have a key role to play in tackling, preventing and supporting victims of hate incidents and hate crimes, this is a wider societal issue which cannot be resolved by policing alone.

“We continue to work closely with our statutory and voluntary partner agencies and the local community to find solutions.

“We would encourage anyone with information in relation to this arson attack to contact us on 101, quoting reference 187 06/06/26. We would be particularly keen to hear from anyone with relevant CCTV, dashcam or other footage.”

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

Information can also be provided anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org