Man arrested after viable device thrown through window of Belfast Islamic Centre
A man has been arrested under the Terrorism Act after a viable device was thrown through the window of the Belfast Islamic Centre during a 'sinister' attack on Friday night.
Police received a report at approximately 10.10pm that an object had been thrown through a window at the centre in the University Road area of the city while people were praying inside the building.
The incident sparked a security alert and the building was evacuated.
Officers attended and carried out a search of the building where a suspicious device was discovered.
Ammunition Technical Officers attended and examined the object which was determined as viable and has since been removed for forensic examination.
A 34-year-old man was arrested under the Terrorism Act at the scene and remains in police custody at this time.
"It is important to stress that, while the suspect has been arrested under the Terrorism Act, the motive for the attack has not yet been established," Assistant Chief Constable Anthony McNally said in a statement.
'Detectives from Serious Crime Branch are currently working at pace and are exploring a number of potential motivating factors including the possibility that this is a hate crime.
"At this time, no other persons are being sought in connection with the attack. I urge anyone who was in the area at the time or may have information to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1808 20/06/25.'
A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/
Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey has condemned the attack. She said: "I unreservedly condemn this sinister attack, and I welcome that the suspect is now in custody, thanks to the vigilance of a member of the public.
'No one should ever feel unsafe in their place of worship, and my thoughts are with everyone affected.
'Acts like these, fuelled by hate, spread fear and division, and target people who have come to our communities to build a life and call this place home.
'It's vital that all political leaders speak out and stand united against this disgusting behaviour.'
Green Party Councillor Áine Groogan also strongly condemned the attack describing it as a "cowardly and vicious act."
'I am horrified to hear about the attack on the Islamic Centre during evening prayers," she said.
'I want to pay tribute to the courageous passer-by who intervened and prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome. It is terrifying to consider what might have happened, and I sincerely hope that all those present are recovering from this traumatic ordeal.'
'This attack is yet another reminder of the very real danger faced by our Islamic community. The recent rise in racist hate and violence on our streets is a shameful stain on our society.
"We must all take responsibility for actively challenging racism, misinformation, and bigotry wherever it appears before someone is seriously hurt.
'I urge those politicians who continue to hide behind the notion of so-called 'legitimate concerns' around migration to reflect on the consequences of their words. Such narratives are as disingenuous as they are dangerous. They help foster a culture in which hate can thrive. Frankly, they should know better.'
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