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PSNI in major probe over ‘absolutely unacceptable' GAA club attack as grounds suffer ‘extensive damage' in horror blaze

PSNI in major probe over ‘absolutely unacceptable' GAA club attack as grounds suffer ‘extensive damage' in horror blaze

The Irish Suna day ago
A MAJOR probe is underway after a GAA club in West Belfast was destroyed by a fire that was believed to be an arson attack.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland is investigating the suspected arson attack on
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The GAA club suffered a fire on Saturday
Credit: Facebook/Cllr Arder Carson
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The electronic score board, club shop and Pitch in Patrons signage board were destroyed
Credit: Facebook/Cllr Arder Carson
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The incident happened as the club prepares to host kids' camps and games over the summer
Credit: Facebook/Cllr Arder Carson
It was understood that the emergency services, including the Northern Ireland
The fire service colleagues confirmed that the fire appeared to have been started "deliberately".
The fire reportedly destroyed the club shop, the electronic scoreboard, and the Pitch in Patrons signage board.
READ MORE ON PSNI
"It's absolutely unacceptable that a community organisation should be targeted in this way.
"Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the vicinity of the club, particularly those who may have relevant dashcam or other footage, to contact us.
"The number to quote is 803 13/07/25."
People can also make a report online on their official PSNI website or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.
Most read in Irish News
Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the club issued a statement to
"Our club shop, scoreboard and Pitch in Patrons signage board which celebrated the recent opening of our new pitch were all destroyed in a fire.
PSNI chief slams 'hateful and criminal behaviour' from 'far-right' 'thugs' in Belfast
"The club has made great efforts in recent years to improve our club facilities for our members and local community and are deeply concerned by this act of vandalism at a time when our facilities are needed the most.
"This event has made us more determined to make good the damage and to continue to provide the best facilities for the benefit of so many in our community."
Despite the suspected arson attack, the
'AN ATTACK ON EVERYONE OF THEM'
He said: "A pure act of deliberate vandalism that fills you with despair, attacking the very organisation that provides so much for young people and the entire community.
"It has to be condemned without reservation.
"Lámh Dhearg supported by it members and the local community work relentlessly to provide top class facilities and services that give hope and opportunity to young and old alike.
"This is an attack on everyone of them. Lighting any fire in in the open air in this weather beggars belief but this is a different level of reckless stupidity."
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The Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed they are currently investigating
Credit: Niall Carson/PA Wire
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