Detectives investigate arson attack at house in south Belfast

Detectives are appealing for information and witnesses following an arson attack at a house in south Belfast.

Detective Sergeant McCartan said: “Police received a report at approximately 3.30pm on Thursday, 10th October that the front door of a property in the Thalia Street area was alight.

“Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service who extinguished the fire.

“A man and woman and their two young children who were inside the house at the time were thankfully able to escape uninjured.

“This, however, was a deliberate attack on a young family which could have had potentially serious consequences.

“As such, we are treating this report as arson with a racially-motivated hate element, and everyone, regardless of their background, has the right to feel safe in their home.

“Extensive damage was also caused to the door, its surrounding frame and the hallway area of the property.

“Our enquiries are continuing today and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time and noticed anything suspicious.

“We also want to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage of the area to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1015 10/10/24.”

A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org