Car torched as spate of arson attacks continues

The reflection of the members of the Orange Order in Rossnowlagh at the weekend as thousands braved the elements for the only official Orange Parade in the south of Ireland which anually comes before the 12th of July celebrations of the 1690 Battle of the Boyne .Picture Brian Mc Daid

The attack on the blue Ford Focus occurred some time between 11.30pm and 12.20am on Tuesday, September 2.

Police in Banbridge have appealed for the help of the local community to catch those responsible.

Investigations into the attacks began in the latter months of 2013 when a number of cars were set on fire or damaged in locations including Banbridge, Waringstown and Loughbrickland.

Police increased patrols and undertook a number of operational measures and no linked incidents were reported for a number of months, however over the last few months several arson attacks have been reported and are believed to be connected.

To date police are investigating 18 incidents of arson.

In July a 22 year old man was arrested in relation to incidents of graffiti and arson in Banbridge on 22 and 29 July. He was released on bail pending further enquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Wright said: “We understand that incidents like this are concerning for the local community but we are doing our utmost to find those responsible and residents can rest assured that all operational measures are being used.

“Information from the public is vital in our investigation. If you notice people loitering in the area who are not normally there, if you notice vehicles frequenting your neighbourhood that you have not seen before, if you see people running off or cars driving at speed on your street please phone us straight away. The quicker we can respond to incidents the more chance we have of finding those responsible or vital evidence.”

Local Ulster Unionist MLA Jo-Anne Dobson said: “I know from meeting regularly with senior PSNI officers, alongside some of the affected families, that they are conducting detailed investigations into this spate of arson attacks.

“I want to see those responsible for endangering the lives of local people, including in this latest attack, caught.

“I have also written directly to the Chief Constable to urge that police resources are maximised to put a stop to this before someone is seriously injured or worse.

“I know from meeting with a number of local families who have been the victims of arson attacks the understandable anger and concern they have.

“I would urge anyone who has any information, no matter how insignificant, to contact the PSNI on 101 or in an emergency dial 999.”