Police condemn racist attacks

Windows were smashed and fireworks set off during a series of racist attacks last night on three homes in the North.

The premises in the Dromard Drive area of Lisburn were targeted sometime before 1am this morning and damage was caused.

PSNI Superintendent Mark Gilmore said racist attacks were unacceptable.

“Hate crime and anti-social behaviour is simply not acceptable and I will be using all available resources to track those people responsible and bring them before the courts," he said.

“I appeal for anyone with information to contact local police and for those responsible to seriously consider what they have done and hand themselves in before they receive a visit from the police.”

There have been a series of racist attacks in the country in recent weeks with the latest happening this weekend when two Asian men were attacked in Dundonald near Belfast.

Government has passed legislation toughening the penalties for race crime as the number of migrants coming to the North increases.

Many are working in the catering or manufacturing sectors and they have found work across the province.

SDLP Assemblywoman Patricia Lewsley said somebody could have been badly injured.

“It is bad enough to have your windows broken but this is becoming more sinister when you’re using fireworks. How far do we have to go before a serious injury and a fatality,” she asked.

“This has to be stopped now and there needs to be zero tolerance for people perpetrating these acts, they must be caught.

“Here are migrant workers coming to Lisbon to contribute to the life and economy of the area only to face this kind of ordeal. Many have fled from areas of conflict in the hope of building a new life and this is the last thing they need.”