PSNI probe 2nd arson attack on Banbridge take-away

It follows a fire in the upstairs flat a fortnight ago.

The upstairs flat was gutted a fortnight ago - Press Eye
Published 18th Jul 2017
Last updated 18th Jul 2017

A police investigation is underway after a fast food outlet in Banbridge was set on fire for the second time in a month.

Fire crews were called to Church Square shortly after 4am to deal with the blaze in a pizza shop.

The flat above the take-away was also gutted in an arson attack on the 5th of July.

Press Eye

The area around Church Square was closed for a number of hours but has now re-opened to traffic.

Sergeant Steven Weatherald would appeal to anyone who may have noticed anyone acting suspiciously in the area to contact Police at Banbridge on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 146 18/07/17. Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111

Local MLA Carla Lockhart said "I would utterly condemn this arson attack and would call on anyone who has information to come forward to the PSNI and report it.

"It's alarming to hear of a second attack in a short space of time on this premises. Substantial damage has been caused to the property and the PSNI are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

"Banbridge is a successful town and one that many travel too because of its family run and owned businesses. This type of activity does not aid or assist business growth and to that end I want to give the PSNI full support in dealing with this matter as quickly as possible. No one has the right to take the law into their own hands"