East Belfast fires being treated as arson

By Peter Moor.

Police are investigating two suspected arson attacks in East Belfast last night, which they believe may be linked.

Detective Sergeant Natalie Moore said: "We received a report just before 11:20pm that the male occupant of a house in Knocknagoney Park was alerted to his door being on fire.  

"The man managed to quickly extinguish the blaze prior to the arrival of the NIFRS and our officers. Thankfully, no one was injured. Damage was caused to the front door.

"A short time later, at 11:35pm, we received a report of a fire at a house in Strathearn Park where the occupants were alerted to flames at the front of their home.

"Our officers attended the scene along with the NIFRS, who extinguished the blaze. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Damage was caused to the front door. 

"Both of these incidents were reckless and, had the fires not been extinguished so quickly, the consequences could have been devastating. 

"We are treating both of these incidents as arson and we are investigating the possibility they both may be linked. 

"I would appeal to anyone who was in either of these areas last night between 11:15pm and 11:40pm and saw any suspicious activity, including individuals or vehicles, to get in touch with our detectives at Musgrave on the non-emergency number 101, and quote reference numbers 1701 or 1717 of 29/04/20 or alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."